Singapore, National Museum Art Gallery, Chen Wen Hsi Retrospective 1982, 7 - 22 November 1982, no. C14

Chen Wen Hsi Retrospective 1982, Ministry of Culture and the National Museum, Singapore, colorplate C14

This work is in good overall condition as viewed. Any inconsistencies and creasing are inherent to the work. Framed, under Plexiglas.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Regarded as the doyen of Chinese-brush artists in Singapore, Chen Wen Hsi is widely celebrated for his ability to bring to life the wonders of nature. Chief amongst his subjects were gibbons and herons native to his birthplace, China.

Though he is famous for his images of gibbons in the meticulous gong-bi style, his paintings of Herons of🐠fer a different avenue of experimentation. He would use his artistic liberty to paint them in a more contemporary art style.

Herons is the result of an ꦜunusual p൲airing; the traditional ink and wash technique coupled with a touch of cubism. The masterful creation pays homage to the elegance of the herons through the emphasis of the fowls’ elongated necks and legs while expounding on the beauty of their plumage through a gentle tonal gradation.

A subtle range of colours grace the painting, ushering in a sense of tranquillꦏity, while the absence of distractions and the negative space in the background draws attention to the flock. The herons, grouped intimately close to one another, suggest a heartening s𒁏ense of kinship and security.