Lot 657
  • 657

Lin Fengmian

Estimate
2,500,000 - 3,500,000 HKD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • Lin Fengmian
  • Opera Figures
  • oil on canvas
signed in Chinese (lower right)
Executed circa 1960s

Provenance

Private European Collection (acquired directly from the artist)

Condition

This painting is in satisfactory visual condition. There is slight craquelure visible on the areas of dark paint and a small abrasion at the lower right. There is no restoration visible under UV light.
"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."

Catalogue Note

During his time in Shanghai, Lin Fengmian would often go and watch Beijing opera. The themes of loyalty, filial piety, benevolence and righteousness seen in Chinese opera, alongside the polarised characters representing good and evil and the undulating climaxes of the stories, seemingly removed from everyday life, were a great source of inspiration for Lin.  At this time, he turned to Chinese opera as the subject matter for his painting, creating the exciting Opera Figures series and through the symbolic emotions of each character he gained greater insight into human life.  He strove to combine elements from Western Cubist art and Chinese folk arts into his work.  This work, Opera Figures, created in the 1960s, is a masterpiece from a mature stage in the artist's career.