Gold foil on stainless steel sculpture

117.5×41×41 cm. 46 1/4×16 1/8×16 1/8 in.

Titled and signed in Chinese, and dated on the top and on the base
PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Asia

The Western Pure Land Resides Within Me
Zeng Yang's World of Infinite Life

Born in Kunming in 1981, Zeng Yang, a twenty-first generation descendant of the Western Xia Confucian master Wo Daochong, was immersed in Buddhist teachings from a young age. In 2013, he started his acclaimed series World of Infinite Life, which he has diligently developed ever since. His work has been exhibited in over a hundred shows internationally, including at the Kommunale Galerie Berlin, the M Woods Museum in Beijing, the Ullens Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, the Jinji Lake Art Museum in Suzhou, and the Guan Shanyue Art Museum in Shenzhen.

The work presented here, Magical Cudgel – Amitabha, the World of Infinite Life, uniquely combines flat painting and three-dimensional sculpture. Inspired by the weapon "Golden Cudgel" of the Monkey King, it is crafted with a pillar coated in gold leaf. At the centre, Zeng Yang has carved a scene depicting the Western Pure Land, while the mantra "Namo Amitabha Buddha" is inscribed repeatedly at both ends of the "magical cudgel," intended to bring peace and calm to the mind. The use of gold leaf requires precision as any stroke is final and cannot be altered, highlighting Zeng Yang's ability to blend Buddhist themes with his artistic skills, requiring coordination of mind, eyes, and hands.

Magnificence of the Western Pure Land

Drawing on the "Western Pure Land" as described in the "Larger Sukhavativyuha Sutra" (Infinite Life Sutra), the artwork reflects the style of Sui and Tang dynasty murals of the Pure Land. The painting uses smooth and flowing lines similar to those of the ancient painter Wu Daozi, depicting the Amitabha (Buddha of Infinite Life) teaching and guiding beings, surrounded by protective figures. A closer look shows heavenly beings at the Pool of Seven Jewels, with Buddha figures detailed in gold leaf. The scene includes detailed pavilions, divine trees, exotic birds, pagodas, and gourds, set against a backdrop of auspicious clouds and calm seas, evoking a sense of peace and yearning for such tranquillity.

Magical Cudgel Bringing Abundance

The artist designs this landscape based on the shape of the Magical Cudgel, incorporating "stability" and the "treasure land" it symbolises. The base features ocean wave designs, representing the origin of the Magical Cudgel. It is surrounded by mountains and waters, representing a geographically auspicious site where water signifies wealth. In contemporary terms, venturing into business ("going into the sea") is also seen as a symbol of abundant wealth. As Zeng Yang says, "I hope this work brings joy to the viewer and arouses a longing for the bliss of the Pure Land," guiding them towards a path of "truth" and "light" in their quest for ultimate happiness.

Price estimate:
HKD 40,000 – 80,000
USD 5,100 – 10,300

Auction Result:
HKD: 110,400