Li Jin

Michael Goedhuis, London
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Generally in good condition overall.
"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."

Li Jin's art speaks for itself, which is a rare and fresh experience. His painting depicts the pleasure, joy and humour of the everyday; but more importantly demonstrates his mastery of the ink painting medium. His brush and ink wash are seemingly effortless, but a result of years of practice; his colour and composition are whimsical and light, but cleverly filled with undertones of seriousness. As a scholar of the contemporary visual world, Li Jin's ink art is unique in his diaristic accounts that are simultaneously simple and profound, fun and witty, carefree and accomplished.

As a true diarist of his own life, Li Jin's Drawing of an Affluent Scene (Lot 17) is a nostalgic account of the simple symbols of abundance with a modern twist. Seated between two well-proportioned women and before a meal of three pieces of melt-in-your-mouth braised pork belly, delectable fruits and aromatic wine, there is hardly more for what a man could wish. This is not an image of everyday, but one of luxury - a moment to be captured for a lifetime and similar to the old family portraits taken throughout the 20^th century as an auxiliary means for families to share their status. Seated among all of this finery the artist gazes down in contemplation. His reflection is the soul of the image. Is this the kind of wealth that begets happiness? In his own words, "In our global society today, the world is moving faster and faster, especially when we are surrounded by so many things and distractions. We hardly take a moment to breathe...Painting for me is a way to slow down and reflect on the moments in life that actually mean something." Li Jin's words and painting together are a wonderful reminder of the world both in front and behind us as one.