Telemachos Kanthos (1910–1993) is widely regarded
as one of the most important figures in 20th-century Cypriot art. Born in the village of Alona
in Pitsilia, Cyprus, into a family with artistic roots, Kanthos showed an early
interest in painting and printmaking. His father, Christodoulos
Kanthos, was a schoolteacher and self-taught artist, while his younger brother,
Theodotos Kanthos, also pursued a career in art.
In 1929, Kanthos moved
to Athens to study at the Athens School
of Fine Arts, where he trained under prominent instructors and
developed the technical skills that would define his later work. His training
combined classical methods with a modern understanding of landscape painting, portraiture, and Cypriot cultural themes.
After completing his
studies, Kanthos returned to Cyprus in 1939 and dedicated his life to painting
and printmaking. His works capture the Cypriot landscape, everyday life, and social realities,
blending emotional intensity with social awareness. Iconic works such as Black Harvest ’74 and Prisoners II depict the dramatic
moments of Cypriot history, while others like Among the Thorns of Tylliria highlight the beauty and
traditions of rural Cyprus.
From 1951 to 1969,
Kanthos served as an art teacher at the Pan-Cypriot Gymnasium in Nicosia, inspiring new
generations of artists. In 1964, he helped establish the Cyprus Chamber of Fine Arts (E.KA.TE.),
promoting the development and recognition of contemporary Cypriot art both locally and
internationally.
Telemachos Kanthos left
behind a rich artistic legacy that continues to inspire collectors, scholars,
and enthusiasts of modern Cypriot
painting. His works are featured in the National Gallery of Greece and preserved at the Telemachos Kanthos Foundation in
Nicosia.
Over the years, many forgeries and copies of Kanthos’
works have appeared in auctions and galleries, particularly in Cyprus. The Cypriot authorities, local police, and our art
association, with the assistance of our expert appraisers, have played
a crucial role in preventing the
circulation of counterfeit works, safeguarding the integrity of the
market and the cultural heritage of Cyprus. Our association has also actively
contributed to the authentication of
numerous Kanthos works, given that many copies have been circulating
since his lifetime.
The life and work of Telemachos Kanthos remain an integral part of Cyprus’ cultural heritage, reflecting the joys, sorrows, and aspirations of the Cypriot people through his masterful artistry.
Andreas Themistokleous
Art Historian, Brussels