Two calligraphic compositions by Yusuf Chen Jinhui (b. 1938)

ink on rice paper, one signed

131 by 68.5cm.; 128 by 68.5cm

inscriptions

Allah

Allah wali al-tawfiq, 'God in the guardian of success'

China's most renowned Islamic calligrapher, Yusuf Chen Jinhui (b.1938), has exhibited across the globe and his work can be found as part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Asian Civilizations in Singapore. Numerous works were also displayed in Dubai (2003), Islamabad (2000), Tehran (1999), Istanbul (at the IRCICA in 1997) and in Kuala Lumpur (1996). His compositions take an innovative approach fashioning Arabic words and phrases into calligrams to striking effect. The artist incorporates elements derived from Chinese calligraphic traditions such as the use of a brush rather than a pen.