Bronze Sculpture Edition: 2/20

46.3 x 30 x 27.8 cm. 18 2/9 x 11 4/5 x 11in.

Signed in Chinese, numbered and dated on the backside of the base
PROVENANCE
Jun Youn Sculpture Gallery, Taipei
Private Collection, Asia

This work is accompanied by a certification of authenticity signed by the artist issued by Taipei Jun Youn Sculpture Gallery

Fast Carving: the Majestic Depiction of Guan Yu

During his early years, Ju Ming perfected his solid wood carving skills and the art of “refining the beauty of a daily life” alongside folk sculptor Lee Chin-Chuan. Folk sculpture thus deeply influenced his choice of creative themes and inspired his Nativism and Historical Figures series. The latter features depictions of historical figures or mythological characters, mainly Ju's favorites — Confucius, Avalokiteśvara, and Guan Yu, the last a general of the Eastern Han dynasty and Three Kingdoms period. Guan Yu(Lot 126), dated 1981, is Ju's first bronze sculpture of the famous general, who also served as a common subject of the artist's early works.

Among the Chinese, Guan Yu is revered as the “Saint of War”, an embodiment of a commander balancing royalty and righteousness. In this work, Guan Yu opens his left hand and holds the legendary Green Dragon Crescent Blade in his right. His robes are fluttering behind him, full of explosive power. Ju Ming expresses Guan Yu's personality with the physical texture of the sculpture: the distinctive knife marks reflect his temperament and fortitude; the blocky surface echoes his tall and burly body; and the use of bronze implies his loyalty, strength of will, and superior martial skills. Ju vividly portrayed Guan Yu using a fast carving technique, resulting in a truly unforgettable work of art.

Price estimate:
HKD: 260,000 – 360,000
USD: 33,200 – 45,900

Auction Result:
HKD: 330,400