The 20th Century Chinese Art Sale offers a meticulous selection of more than 120 lots estimated at HK$130 million/ US$16.6 million. Apart from a number of outstanding works passed down by celebrated Chinese painters active in French art circles from the early 20th Century, the auction features a collection of exceptionally rare paintings scheduled to debut in the art market for the first time.
Sylvie Chen, Head of Sotheby's 20th-Century Chinese Art Department, said: "In the selection of artworks for the upcoming sale, significant emphasis has been placed on the accomplishments of the artist in the broader context of modern Chinese art history, rather than on commercial considerations. In light of this, we are proud to present the magnificent works of the genre's great masters - Zao Wou-ki, Chu Teh-chun, Wu Guanzhong and Chao Chung-hsiang - all hailing from the cradle of modern Chinese art, the National Arts Academy of Hangzhou. Although traditional Chinese culture has been revered by the western world for its breadth and depth, its development was hindered during the era of political turbulence in the 1960s and 70s when numerous works of veteran masters in modern Chinese art were destroyed. As such, the works of virtuoso painters featured at our auction will present clear evidence of the artists' pursuit of progress and of the fusion of Chinese and Western arts. This moving spirit of the early 20th century is brought to vivid life in their works."
Auction Preview
Sat, 2 Oct 10, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sun, 3 Oct 10, 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Mon, 4 Oct 10, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Auction
Session 1: Mon, 4 Oct 10, 3:00 PM, Lots 201 - 321