Haunch of Venison, London
Acquired directly from the above by the present owner

Colour: The colours in the catalogue illustration are fairly accurate although the illustration fails to fully convey the dusty quality of the ash powder on the surface. Condition: This work is in very 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."

Callipers is a stunning example of Zhang Huan's Ash Paintings, the artist's most recognized body of works. These canvases beautifully applied with infinite shades of grey incense dust carry a great sense of remembrance that reflects the artist's fascination with Chinese history and collective memory of the nation. In an interview Zhang Huan refers to when he once started this series by reproducing an image of a young general: " it is a depiction of a young Zhang Xueliang. I even went to Hawaii to see his gravesite...He died on Hawaii at the age of 94. In recent years we have seen "China Revolution", a 6 hour documentary showing the images and photographs of Zhang Xueliang with Jiang Jieshi in Xi'an before the catastrophe hit, as well as photographs from his old age. As soon as I saw these processes, my feelings and mind grew very complicated. This photo really is so interesting! It turns out that he was a young warlord all along, a little punk. He completely lacked that air of dignity. Then, later, he was old and decrepit. The changes throughout the life of one individual, when exhibited, can really make us sigh with emotion."
The artist cited in: Exhibition Catalogue, Milan, Project B, Zhang Huan, Rebirth, 2009