Cai Guo-Qiang

Acquired by the present owner directly from the artist

This work is in very good condition overall. The paper appears to be slightly wrinkled towards the edges, but this is inherent to the medium and the technique of the artist. There are no apparent condition problems with this work. The work is framed under plexiglas and was not examined out of frame.
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.

Originally conceived for the 2nd Asia-Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art in Brisbane in 1996, 30,000 metres of fuse tied to helium balloons was to be detonated in midair, the fire striking down from the sky into the river, like a lightning bolt. Darting in and out of the water like a dragon, it was to coil around a highway bridge, finally disappearing at the base of the bridge.  The project was never realised because the company supplying the fuses suffered an accident (the causes of which had nothing to do with Cai's project), which consequently destroyed all of Cai's materials. -  Fei Dawei and Andrei Ujica ed., Cai Guo-Qiang, London, 2000, p. 144