Chen Yiming

signed in pinyin
executed in 2005.

Private American Collection

This work is in very good condition. There is evidence of hairline craquelure across the surface of the painting, only visible under close examination. There are two spots of slight dirt in between the girl’s knees and at the left index finger. 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."

“What was most significant of Chen Yiming’s artistic career was the fact that he shifted from one culture to another, allowing himself to accumulate a multicultural perspective. After China adapted the Open Door Policy, artists were given a new opportunity to access the international platform which widened their artistic visions. Chen Yiming was one of the pioneer painters whom had successfully entered the global market. On one hand, Chen Yiming went to New York with the desire of understanding the Western artistic culture. On the other hand, he brought with him his own early oeuvre containing his modus operandi, in search of artistic innovations and to exchange ideas in a foreign land. He was lucky to have been exposed to such opportunities to learn and explore, but it was not without challenges. Cultural difference was an inevitable obstacle. The cultural clash revolved around confronting ideologies, cultural values, language and expression barriers. Chen was culturally and artistically enriched, although confused at times yet emotionally satisfied with all sorts of excitement and gratification. It was not merely a journey in discovering unfamiliar cultures but also of the self. Chen constantly reflected on the cultural connection between the West and the East, while the process further reassured him of his own roots. Therefore, after gaining recognition from the Western art world, he returned and continued his career in his motherland. Through the understanding of Chen’s career path, one was able to fully appreciate not only his unique painterly style, but also the spiritual enlightenment embedded within his every creation.”

- Fan Di’an, Director of The National Art Museum of China