C. J. Tañedo

The painting is in good condition, as is the canvas, which is clear and taut. Minor indications of wear and handling around the edges, corners and margins are evident but are unobtrusive. The paint layers are well-preserved and are in stable condition. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals no indication of retouching. Unframed, on stretcher.
"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 warm sunlight streaming through the windows in the background invites respite yet the eyes of the woman are wide open in contemplation. CJ Tañedo paints the woman's dress and hair in painstaking details but chooses to smoothen over the porcelain skin--showing very faint lines on the slender fingers and no distinct marks on the face--making apparent a gentle affection and admiration for the subject.
 
But he is careful to put distance. CJ Tañedo's works have always touched upon Biblical themes, his artist statement firmly entrenched in the Scriptures. Hence, a prudent distance from the female. This distance encapsulates the whole scene.
 
The woman is painted in cold hues to separate her from the warmth of her surroundings. Two angler fishes swim around her, suggesting the presence—if not of water—of depth. We see no words written on her journal. Her privacy is intact. Her depths unknowable. The artist's trademark verses frame the image, like a silent paean to her mystery. A (literal) lyrical ambience suffuses the whole image with romanticism aptly captured by the artist's technique.
 
The visual and conceptual elements converge completely, forming a formidable barricade around the hallowed, simultaneously exposing the desire, musings, and fierce territoriality of the unseen artist. She is about to write down her thoughts but it is he who actually divulges.
 
- Adjani Arumpac