Nguyen Khang

Private Collection, France

The work is in good condition overall. Craquelures are visible on the bottom left quadrant and near the headdress area. A few gentle scratches are visible in the background (bottom left corner, beneath the figure and right side of the silver moon). However this is only visible upon very close inspection. No restoration has been detected. Framed.
"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."

The artist Nguyen Khang graduated in 1935 from the Hanoi School of Fine Arts. Along with fellow classmates such as Tran Van Can, Pham Hau and Nguyen Gia Tri, he contributed to the birth of lacquer painting as a preeminent medium in twentieth-century Vietnamese modern art. The lacquer works of Nguyen Khang fully blossomed after his journey to Paris for the acclaimed Universal Exhibition of 1937 followed by Japan in the early 40s.

Executed in 1943, the present lot exemplifies the relief carving technique which Nguyen Khang pioneered and mastered during the 1930s and 40s. This lacquer panel depicts a full-body portrait of a Vietnamese traditional female opera singer with profound details and thought. The round sphere behind her represents the image of a full moon, and thus evokes an ancestral Asian ritual of communion between nature and culture. The shimmering silver pigments on the moon harnesses the moonlight effect in literal terms, reflecting light into the singer’s face, hands and book. Moreover, the delicate treatment of her costume and accessories is an accurate documentation of the era.

The depiction of various characters under the moonlight is one of Nguyen Khang’s most beloved and revered themes throughout his artistic career.