- 832
Liu Dan
Description
- Liu Dan
- Book Collage Series: Window
- ink, colour and pencil on paper, framed
Provenance
Collection of Elizabeth Wichmann-Walczak
Exhibited
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."
Catalogue Note
In this present collage, Liu demonstrates the reconciliation of his interest in Chinese and Western styles in an atmosphere of artistic liberty, establishing his profound respect for Chinese and Western artistic heritage and continuity.3 The foreshortened angle and the delicate pencil drawing reveal Liu's mastery of the linear perspective of the woman and chiaroscuro in creating a convincing sense of three-dimensionality and spatial recession. Through the window however, one enters into a semi-abstract landscape; achieved using pale, loose ink washes. The style here is not only evocative of Haleakala's unique volcanic landscape, it is also reminiscent of the mists and clouds found in a traditional Chinese landscape. Liu's innovative juxtaposition of Chinese ink and Western drawing results in an intriguing image of cultural integration. The celebration of mixed elements evident in this work is extremely unique, especially in contrast to the development of Liu's mature dry-brush paintings of flowers (see Poppy, Lot 831), scholar stones and landscapes, for which he is renowned worldwide.
1 Morse, Marcia. "Artist Liu Dan Transcends Technique in New Work." The Sunday Star-Bulletin & Advertiser 30 April 1989: E10. Print
2 Ibid.
3 Jennifer Saville, "Works by Liu Dan", Honolulu Academy of Arts Calendar News, April 1989.