Lü Shoukun (Lui Show-Kwan)

signed LÜ SHOUKUN, dated 1969, and with one seal of the artist

Acquired from the artist's family
Water, Pine and Stone Retreat Collection
A Private European Collection

The work is in good condition overall. Framed under glass.
"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."

Lü Shoukun was well recognised as one of Hong Kong's most important artists as well as the founder of the "New Ink Movement" in Hong Kong.  He was the honorary advisor to Hong Kong Museum of Art and taught ink paintings in Chinese University of Hong Kong in the 1960s. 

 In Journey, Lü Shoukun used bold swaths of ink wash to represent mountains and water, while in his earlier work, Landscape in the Style of Kun Can (1955) (see Lot 2839), Lü painted landscapes in a densely textured natural imagery.  The astounding contrast between the two pieces illustrates Lü's masterful versatility in painting.  As a teacher, Lü continued to pursue his passion for discovery of new forms of expression throughout his career.  His experimentations in painting led to his mature Zen series, iconically characterised by bold red lotus imagery surrounded by modernist broad brushstrokes.  Each painting demonstrates a confidence and commitment to pushing the boundaries of experimentation within the guiding principles of tradition.