Chu Teh-Chun (Zhu Dequn)

signed in pinyin and Chinese and dated 73; signed in Chinese and titled on the reverse

Private European Collection

This work is in very good condition. There is a light bulge at the upper right corner 5 cm in length. There is evidence of hairline craquelure 35 cm from the bottom and 15 cm from the left edge of the work. There is no evidence of restoration under UV.
"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."

"As Chu Teh-Chun's ambition became clearer in 1970s, he discovered a new realm.  From then on his paintings are nourished with a whimsical rhythm just like an ink painting. Although he still uses broad brushstrokes to compose an elegant texture on canvas, its fundamental purpose ascended from mere expression into the creation of a spiritual realm. This shift not only surpassed all of Chu Teh-Chun's works in the past, and it also enabled him to establish an idiosyncratic style. His enriched and refined canvas copiously expresses an enigmatic and mellifluous oriental exoticism. His horizon is also widened – at times it surges forward with great momentum on magnificent scale, at other times it meanders warmly and intimately. He also dwelled on traditional Chinese landscape and flower-and-bird paintings to infuse elements onto his creations. Hence sometimes his paintings echo the works of Wu Changshuo or Pan Tianshou or even Lin Fengmian; transcending to a higher plain."
Gao Tianmin, Chinese art critic