signed in Chinese and dated 2002.8 (lower left)
Executed in 2002

Private Asian Collection

This work is in good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In his early years at the Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts, Gong Lilong developed a strong foundation in Realist painting techniques. In the 1980s he won a Young Artist award, formally establishing his artistic talent. However, creatively, Gong wanted to find a new means of expression, away from the traditional path. He began to look at the common farmer, rural life and natural landscapes as his subject matters.  He did not depict the hardships of their lives but rather, he chose a humorous style to portray the rounded and full bodies of his characters, exaggerating the happiness of a moment in their lives and adding a surrealist feeling to his compositions.  In 2000, he began to paint metropolitan figures; through his brush the viewer can observe the rapid transformations of Chinese society and the distinctive personalities that Gong Lilong has encountered.