Stainless steel sculpture Edition: 7/9

82.5 × 70 × 37 cm. 32 1/2×27 1/2×14 5/8 in. (left piece)78 × 70 × 33.5 cm. 30 3/4×27 1/2×13 1/4 in. (right piece)

Signed in Chinese and pinyin, numbered on the bottom of the left piece's back; signed in Chinese and numbered on the bottom of the right piece's back

LITERATURE (different sized edition)
GANG — The Awakened Warrior, Hong Kong, p. 104—113
EXHIBITED (different sized edition)
17 - 30 Mar 2017, GANG - The Awakened Warrior - Ren Zhe Sculpture Exhibition, Exchange Square, Central, Hong Kong
13 Nov 2017 - 5 Jan 2018, GANG - The Awakened Warrior - Ren Zhe Sculpture Exhibition-Xiamen, Xiamen Paragon Center, Xiamen
16 - 21 Oct 2019, Ren Zhe Beijing Taimiao Solo Exhibition, The Imperial Ancestral Temple, Beijing

PROVENANCE
Ping Art Space, Taipei
Acquired directly by present private Asian collector from the above

This work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity issued by Ping Art Space, Taipei

A Summit of Self-Contemplation
The Spirit and Philosophy in Ren Zhe's Sculptures

Born in Beijing in 1983, Ren Zhe stands as a leading figure in contemporary Chinese sculpture. Immersed in traditional calligraphy and martial arts from a young age, he holds a profound understanding of Eastern culture. He graduated from the Tsinghua University's Academy of Fine Arts in the early 2000s, where he specialized in the study of ancient Greek, Egyptian, and both Eastern and Western modern sculpture. This education laid the foundation for his distinctive style, which harmoniously blends Eastern philosophy with the concept of the modern warrior. Ren's work is coveted by collectors worldwide and has been acquired by prestigious institutions such as the Palace Museum in Beijing, the National Art Museum of China, and the Korea Art Bank. His pioneering 2019 solo exhibition at Beijing's Imperial Ancestral Temple further cemented his impact on contemporary art.

Ren's creations utilize stainless steel as the primary material, merging modern aesthetics with the rich essence of Chinese culture. Beneath the cool surface of this medium lies a fervent commitment to values like "the unity of Heaven and humanity" and the inexhaustible drive to overcome challenges. Through a contemporary lens, his art celebrates the enduring spirit of righteousness and virtue. The featured work, Above the Clouds, encapsulates the artist's pursuit of self-transcendence, standing out as one of his most iconic pieces.

Internal Conflict and Celestial Harmony

"As the highest good is like water, nourishing all without contest."
——Laozi

Above the Clouds captures the essence of personal pursuit through the imagery of warriors engaged in a strategic duel. This piece holds great significance for the artist, with a large version proudly displayed at Hong Kong's renowned Exchange Square, highlighting its profound public impact. On first glance, the warriors appear to be in fierce opposition, yet closer inspection reveals a dialogue of self-reflection atop the clouds. Ren Zhe has remarked, "Our greatest adversaries are not others but ourselves." This sculpture embodies the dialogue between the self and soul, akin to every individual's journey through struggle, breakthrough, and eventual reconciliation with the world. It serves as a mirror for viewers, reflecting their personal battles and aspirations. Standing at the summit, one realizes that true adversaries are often the shadows of our past limitations. The reflective quality of the surface suggests a fluid tension akin to water-where motion and stillness coexist.

The title Above the Clouds subtly hints at life's peaks and an elevated state of being, conveying deep Eastern wisdom: Only by transcending oneself can one achieve genuine inner peace and enlightenment.

Price estimate:
HKD 180,000 - 280,000
USD 23,100 - 35,900