林风眠 Fengmian (1900-1991)

Lin Fengmian (1900-1991) "Chinese Opera Series: Female Warrior of the Yangs"

In his oil paintings of this series Lin Fengmian leaves large background areas. In the figures we can see that the form and motives were the result of their deliberate creative choice. The funds are important in the formation of the entire composition because they represent the interweaving of time and space on the stage of the opera. To break the marked edges on the broken white background Lin chose circular compositions in which the interactions of his figures are ingeniously placed around a large circle. Between the two figures it creates a return or loop, successfully guiding the eye of the viewer around it and producing a sense of continuity. However, despite this visual loop, the author designed his compositions with specific points of entry and exit. In this way, the spectators can easily extract their attention later from the cycle.

Signed - With certificate of authenticity from Gerald Markowitz, grandson of Lin Fengmian. This painting appears in the catalog of Lin Fengmian's work by Gerald Markowitz.

Oil on canvas.

54.6 x 45.6 cm

 Origin:

Acquired directly from the artist in Shanghai in 1961 by Mr. R. Cugnet.

In 1970 it becomes part of a private collection in Paris.

 References:

CHRISTIE'S HONG KONG, MAY 25, 2019, LOT 44.

CHRISTIE'S HONG KONG, MAY 25, 2019, LOT 45.

CHRISTIE'S HONG KONG, MAY 30, 2015, LOT 12.

BONHAMS (HONG KONG), NOVEMBER 28, 2009, LOT 110.

Notes:

The story of "The warrior of the Yangs":

The majority of the male members of the Yang family, an aristocratic family of the imperial army of the Song dynasty, sacrificed themselves in battle between the Song and Liao tribes. Lady, a member of the Yang family, led twelve warriors to war against the enemy and finally won the battle. The most important character among the twelve warriors is Yang Zongbao's wife, Mu Guiying, who was originally a bandit. She fought with her husband in several wars. And she even became the Chief of the Yangs' warriors and repressed many rebellions.