Zeng Youhe (Tseng Yuho)

titled in Chinese

Acquired directly from the collection of the artist

Lionel Giles, The Analects of Confucius, The Heritage Press, New York, 1970, illus. i, ii, iii, iv, vi.

Overall in good condition.
"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."

"My paintings symbolize six of the chief Confucian virtues. The choice of symbols, however, is spontaneous; they have no mythological connotations. Examination of the text will show how Confucius considered these principles basic to the right conduct of life." – Tseng Yuho

Exposure to Western modernism and the ascent of Abstract Expressionism in New York catalysed Tseng’s invention of her famed dsui technique. In an effort to remain grounded in her cultural roots, Tseng borrows elements from ancient Chinese papermaking to create organic textures and layers. The Analects (Lot 2846) exhibits Tseng’s masterful application of layered ink, aluminium, and acrylic on textured paper, at the same time constituting one of the few instances where figures and animals are featured in Tseng’s paintings.

Tseng Yuho created The Analects of Confucius for the 1970 publication of the English translation of Confucius’ Analects. Translated by British scholar Lionel Giles, the 1970 publication remains one of the most thoroughly researched and unbiased English versions of the ancient Chinese text. Prior translations were hindered by limited knowledge of the classical Chinese language, with the exception of James Legge’s translation, which, albeit based upon comprehensive study, is regarded by many to be biased owing to the fact that he was a Christian missionary. 

Six illustrations are published therein, each representing a different Confucian virtue: Filial Piety, Humanity, Loyalty, Integrity, Thought, and Sincerity. As a descendent of Zeng Shen, one of the four principle disciples of Confucius, Tseng Yuho had a strict Confucian upbringing as a child. Although the artist later rebelled against the oppressive environment, marrying Gustav Ecke, her German Art History professor and moving with him to Hawaii, she never truly shed her Chinese and Confucian roots. Tseng’s dsui technique is inspired by ancient Chinese papermaking and scroll-mounting traditions, while The Analects of Confucius represents perhaps a sign of filial piety to her father, whom she angered by marrying a foreigner.