Le Pho

Sotheby's Hong Kong, October 6, 2008, Lot 957
Private Collection, Japan

The work is in good condition overall. Upon close observation, the silk shows signs of very faint runs predominantly along the right border and bottom half of the left border (background area). There is evidence of very mild foxing marks near the signature area, on the face, hands and background area of the top right quadrant. No restoration has been detected under ultraviolet light inspection. Framed, under Plexiglas.
"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."

Le Pho’s mastery in painting on silk is evident in the application of colors and attention to detail in his works. The artist studied at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts de Paris in France and honed his skills during his many travels around Europe. Though the artist was influenced by the French school of painting, he continued to paint Vietnamese subject matter throughout his life. His portraits of women in particular have garnered him grand international acclaim. The women depicted are often sophisticated figures from the upper classes and portrayed with a dignified charm and maternal grace.

The present work Seated Lady encompasses all the characteristics that the artist valued as representing the feminine spirit. The portrait of the woman showcases the artist’s ability to articulate beauty in a profoundly pleasant manner. She stands in front of curtains, and the work is absent of distractions that would veer the audience’s focus away from her. Adding to this simple yet elegant composition, he paints her in deep contemplation with a faraway look in her eyes. This stylized portrayal of the woman suggests that the work to be more personal than his other idealized depictions of women.

In Seated Lady, the artist shows his keen understanding about applying pastel colors on silk. This is seen in the fine representation of the traditional ao dai worn by the lady and in her fair complexion. The color difference between the woman and the background creates a textural effect that accentuates her femininity, notably the contrast in hues of the curtain paired together with her silhouette. The artist’s skilled handling of ink and gouache on silk adds an ephemeral quality to the portrait. The almost dreamlike atmosphere of the work therefore implies that the artist is remembering his past and nostalgic for the people of his birthplace.