Chen Yifei

Signed in English and Chinese (lower right)
Executed in 1998

Marlborough Gallery, New York
Acquired by the present owner from the above

This work is in a very good condition overall. There are no visible condition problems. The work is framed and was not examined out of frame. It was not examined under UV light.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

There is always a deeply rooted sense of nostalgia in Chen Yifei's works, which fall under two main themes that he stayed faithful to throughout his career. One is the landscapes of water towns in China, and another is vivid portraits of women in traditional Chinese dresses. Western techniques are prevalent in his works, however there is still a solid connection to the Chinese spirit. It is no surprise that a previously unknown water town near Shanghai became a tourist attraction simply due to the unveiling of Chen's Memories of Hometown - Twin Bridge, which was painted and presented to Deng Xiaoping by Arnold Hammer as a gift. As the audience admired the tranquil and serene scene, meticulously recreated under Chen's skillful hands, they could easily place themselves into the picture – as if they were walking through the narrow corridors of the town, or paddling along the sleepy canal. It is through Chen Yifei's uncanny ability to capture and convey the "essence" of the water town onto the canvas which allows its viewers to become fully immersed in the scenery. It is an experience that must be felt through Chen's work, as words could never describe the true "essence" of Chen Yifei's water towns.