David Wu Ject-Key

signed in pinyin and Chinese and stamped with artist's seal; titled and dated summer 59 on the reverse

Private Asian Collection

This work is in good condition. There is evidence of light wear along the edges of the work. There is a very minor dent at the lower right corner and hairline craquelure 8 cm from above the big cottage and a minor paint loss near the bottom right corner. There is a horizontal crease running along the top edge of the work, presumably inherent to the artist’s working method. 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."

David Wu Ject-key's landscape paintings fully embody the spirit of sketching, which was advocated in the European art world during mid-nineteenth century. With the advances in pigment production, artists could now carry portable tools and work at the suburbs. This encouraged the Barbizon School of painters and Impressionists to paint en plein air; marking the prologue of Modern Art. Impressionist painting emphasizes on the depiction of vibrant change of colours under the natural light – the movement was deeply influential in the era and in David Wu Ject-key's work. New England Farmillustrated a richly coloured American pastoral scenery. The incorporation of multiple green vegetation in the foreground and background, as well as various kinds of building tiles, help to create an aesthetically pleasing piece. Moreover, the light grey tone produces a soft and harmonized effect on the canvas. This approach corroborates with Wu's landscape works, forming a robust and  engaging style.