Zhu Dequn (Chu Teh-Chun) b. 1920

signed CHU TEH-CHUN and Chinese, dated 68 in the lower right
signed CHU TEH-CHUN and Chinese, No. 282, dated 1968 on the reverse, framed

Acquired directly from the artist from a Private New York Collector
Acquired by the present owner from the above

Minor paint loss and cracks on the rim of the painting, otherwise, generally in 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."

In the many works of Chu Teh-chun, light is the soul of his art, the fundamental element of his style.  His use of colours and creation of forms create a mysterious effect that is only magnified through a variation of light.  Several works from this auction demonstrate this style.  The use of black paint in these works is also worth investigating.  He juxtaposes dark against bright colours and incorporates various tones of white to create the impression of an unpredictable light source. His brushstrokes are reminiscent of Chinese calligraphy; this, together with his brilliant use of ink, are hallmarks of Chu Teh-chun's art.  His painting style harks back to the artist's early years as an art student at Hangzhou Academy of Fine Art, when he would spend mornings practicing calligraphy or Chinese painting. In these works, his spontaneous arrangement of patches of colour through calligraphic brushstrokes and a graceful balance between light and dark work together to portray the solemnity of Nature and the sentimentality of the seasons, exemplifying the essence of Chu-Teh-chun's art.

 

Chu Teh-chun's early works demonstrate the artist's attempt to create atmosphere and sceneries through brushwork. In this period, he used his raw sensitivity to delve further into this principle so that he might arrive at a synthesis. The composition is tight, achieving structural simplicity and dynamism at the same time.