Sotheby's Hong Kong, October 27, 1993, Lot 760
Private Collection, Hong Kong

The work is in good condition overall. There are signs of very slight wrinkling in the immediate top right corner of the paper, and a faint horizontal crease located on the bottom half, however this is only visible upon very close observation. No restoration has been detected. 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. 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."

Chen Wen Hsi’s skill in painting nature scenes is perfectly exemplified in Egrets, notably in his deliberate use of earthy colors and experimentation of tone. The composition of the present work shows his early experimentation with Cubist principles, while the distinct brushstrokes are reminiscent of classical Chinese ink painting. He depicts the two birds against a white background, alluding to Chinese landscape painting where white spaces emphasize the presence of the subjects. In the present painting this compositional layout gives the illusion of depth, as if the birds are standing in a lake amidst a vast landscape. The work Egrets is a very special piece in his oeuvre for it demonstrates his transition from painting realist paintings to future cubist works.