Oil on canvas

147 × 65 cm. 57 7/8 × 25 5/8 in.

Signed in English and Chinese, dated on bottom right
PROVENANCE
3 Dec 2006, Ravenel Taipei Autumn Auction, Lot 147
Acquired directly by present important private Asian collector from the above

Eternal Ground, the Invisible Grand Path
Hsiao Chin's Genesis

Born in Shanghai, he moved to Taiwan in 1949 and, since 1952, under the guidance of mentor Li Zhongsheng, founded the "Ton Fan Group". This marked the beginning of a new wave in Taiwan's modern art scene, later extending its influence overseas. Spending over 40 years in cities like Milan, Paris, and New York, Hsiao Chin, after studying in Spain in 1956, rooted himself in Italy, leading international art movements such as "Punto" and "Surya" in the Milan art scene. The 1961 "Punto" movement, initiated by Hsiao Chin, emphasized the purpose of artistic creation in understanding limited thoughts in the infinite universe, striving for a spiritual world beyond reality, and making a significant impact in Europe.

Hsiao Chin was awarded the "Italian Star of Solidarity" knight medal by the President of Italy, and his works are housed in renowned art institutions worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art, and the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts. Although he passed away in 2023, his profound influence continues to shape the modern art scene.

Hsiao Chin's comprehensive abstract creations began in 1958, rooted in Daoist philosophy, exploring the profound essence of the Eastern spirit. The featured artwork in this auction, the 1959 oil painting Abstract, exemplifies the core of his early thoughts.

Brush Flowing Freely, Yin and Yang in Harmony

Abstract reflects distinct Daoist-inspired concepts: a blue-shaped base resembling a tripod at the bottom, a red square entity in the middle, and an interweaving of ink-black circles above in chaotic surroundings, exuding a hidden charm. The artist orderly arranges diverse elements, presenting a vision both full of order and individually thriving.

Furthermore, Hsiao Chin explores the fluidity of cosmic space and concrete objects, interpreting the intricate evolution of civilizations. The square filled with crimson resembles a traditional Chinese red door, symbolizing a revisit and tribute to the past, portraying the abstract significance of the interplay between yin and yang. With concise abstract patterns, a free yet grand structure, and rich and full colours, Hsiao Chin condenses the cosmic view: sacred and expansive, marking the birth of a new era.

Price estimate:
HKD: 100,000 – 150,000
USD: 12,800 - 19,200

Auction Result:
HKD: 156,000