ISER, JOSIF

ISER, JOSIF (1881–1958), Romanian artist and draftsman. Iser, who studied in Munich and then in Paris under Derain, began his career as a draftsman. However, after World War I, he devoted himself entirely to painting, working until 1928 at Neuilly-sur-Seine. Iser's work is characterized by the almost linear manner in which he emphasizes the contours of people and objects. His style is a mixture of neoclassicism and impressionism, influenced by Cézanne. Some of his recurring themes are the Oriental landscapes of Romania (Doboudja), old Turks in cafés, and interiors with odalisques. -BIBLIOGRAPHY: Jancou, in: Menorah Journal, 15 (1928). 340; Iser (1962). (Isac Bercovici)