Oil on canvas

80 x 80 cm. 31 1/2 x 31 1/2 in.

Signed in English and dated on bottom right; titled, signed in English and Chinese, and dated on the reverse
EXHIBITED
2-16 Apr 1990, Art for Life: 300 Works of Art to Defeat Cancer, École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts, Paris

PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Asia

Note: An exhibition label of Art for life, a Donation Exhibition for Institute Curie, organized by École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts is affixed on the reverse

Chan Kin Chung: A Poem of Mental Imagery

Born in Guangdong and graduated from the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, Chan Kin Chung went to study in France in 1969. Despite the mainstream abstractionism of Parisian art world, he focused on figurative paintings of landscape and architectural structures, and developed excellent super-realistic painting techniques, greatly appreciated by the modernism master Zao Wou-Ki. Chan came to the forefront in Paris with the Composition Series, which were collected by institutions including the City of Paris' Museum of Modern Art and the National Library of France.

The work, Composition No.14, was accomplished around 1980 to 1981. As the most developed work of the Composition series, it represents the unworldly state of mind of oriental tradition, as well as the independence of Western free spirit. The only subject depicted in the painting is a cluster of exuberant foliage, of which the seemingly complex structure is reminiscent of the concise composition, delicate texture and eternal spirit of Mark Rothko. In the meanwhile, the vigorously growing branches and leaves embody surging vitality. With his observation and perception of the scenery in tranquility, Chan has revealed an unearthly image, a true reflection of his mental imagery.

Price estimate:
HKD: 40,000 – 80,000
USD: 5,100 – 10,200

Auction Result:
HKD: 129,800