Fan Kanglong

signed in Chinese and dated 95 (lower right)
Executed in 1995

Private Asian Collection

There are hairline cracks in the wood at the sides of sculpture, probably as part of the natural ageing process of the wood. There are also some abrasions by the front foot of the dog at the base. Overall, this work is in good visual 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."

Born in Xinzhu, Taiwan, in 1965, the artist Fan Kanglong suffered from polio as a child. At the age of five, his parents divorced and he was raised by his maternal grandmother. Despite the difficulties and hardships he faced in early life, Fang did not give up on himself or lose hope. In his art, Fan relies on his sensitivity and innate talent, drawing on his life experiences to express his inner feelings through his work.  Fan often chooses to sculpt animals and people, such as the wooden sculpture Dog (Lot 673) in this sale. Through his complex, delicate carvings the artist captures the delicate charm of the dog, sitting upright. His expression is docile and lost, exuding a somewhat pitiful and lonely feeling and distilling life's loneliness and hardships into this small sculpture. Although simple, this sculpture has a strong depth of feeling. In 1990, Fang received the New Art Award from the Taipei Fine Arts Museum and the Award for Art Excellence from Lion Art publishers.