Zao Wou-Ki (Zhao Wuji)

signed in pinyin and Chinese; sign in pinyin, titled and dated 14.6.91 on the reverse

Private Asian Collection

This work is in very good condition. There is evidence of scattered minor accretions across the surface of the work, predominately in the upper part of the painting. There is evidence of light wear along the right edge of the work, only visible under close examination. There is evidence of very minor hairline craquelure, 6 cm from the bottom edge and 22 cm from the right edge and four small paint losses, three of which are along the left part of top edge, and the other one 11 cm from the bottom edge and 8 cm from the left edge. 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."

"At a glance, the lines are indiscernible. But after an attentive study, it is obvious that they can play a significant role. The lines from the essential texture of the painted work, a multitude of vague lines overlap, interfere, combine, vanish, and splash back into each other, and as they spread out, they merge in the sparkling limpidity of the colour, giving the colour paint a smooth density and an inexhaustible richness. The lines weave into a gossamer background on which the composition rests."

George Duby, member of the Académie française