Zao Wou-Ki

Galerie Jan Krugier, Genève
Acquis auprès de celle-ci par le propriétaire actuel en 1992.

Pierre Daix, Zao Wou-Ki - L'oeuvre - 1935-1993, Neuchâtel, éditions Ides et Calendes, 1994, p.180, illustré en couleurs
Pierre Daix, Zao Wou-Ki, Neuchâtel, éditions Ides et Calendes, 1996, p.69, illustré en couleurs (édition poche de la précédente, coll. "Polychrome")
Yves Bonnefoy  et Gérard De Cortanze, Zao Wou-Ki, Paris, éditions La Différence / Enrico Navarra, 1998, p. 257, illustré en couleurs

The colours are fairly accurate in the catalogue illustration, although the overall tonality is lighter in the original. The contrast and transparencies are more important in the original, which is richer of a lot of nuances. The work is unlined and is in excellent 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."

signed; signed, dated and titled on the back; oil on canvas. Executed on February 13, 1992.

" Je vois souvent chez Zao Wou-Ki l'eau et le feu, je vois l'air et la terre: agents de desruction, de métamorphoses, de disséminations, de germinations, mais grandes figures aussi de notre idée de la terre; et dans leurs expansions et leurs plissements je vois même parfois des bribes d'horizon, des entrevisions de végétaux ou de pierre."
(Yves Bonnefoy, Zao Wou-Ki, in cat. exp. Paris, Galerie Thessa Herold, 1998)