Lot 410
  • 410

Yue Minjun

Estimate
40,000 - 60,000 GBP
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Description

  • Yue Minjun
  • Terracotta Warriors 3
  • signed, dated 2000 and inscribed with the number 3-13 on the reverse

  • acrylic on fibreglass

  • 183 by 67 by 53cm.; 72 by 26 3/8 by 20 7/8 in.

Provenance

Private Collection, Miami 
Acquired directly from the above by the present owner

Condition

Colour: The colours in the catalogue illustration are fairly accurate. Condition: This work is in very good condition. Upon very close inspection there are some tiny spots of paint loss in places on the figure's lower teeth and lips. There is wear and associated restoration to the lower outer sleeve sections of the t-shirt and also to the figure's left shoulder tip. There is a stable hairline crack to the the figure's left foot (running backwards from the little toe approx. 20cm.) and also to the back of his right arm There is a small media loss to the outer extreme lower edge of the figure's right foot. There are scattered faint media accretions and rub marks in places throughout the figure which are unobtrusive and only visible upon very close inspection.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Yue Minjun made twenty-five individual Terracotta Warriors in 2000 and cast each in an edition of three. From these he created three 'Armies', each consisting of the twenty five individual Warriors. Armies 1 & 2 remain fully intact in private collections. This work is number 13 from the 3rd Army.

"When an image is duplicated continuously, the subsequent strength in numbers produces an immense force. Once the image transforms into an idol, I am able to manipulate and utilise the image repeatedly. An idol has a life force; it often influences our lives and regulates our conduct by setting itself as an example. A contemporary society is an idolised society; hence its culture becomes an idolised culture." (Yue Minjun quoted in: Diana Yeh, 'The Wisdom of Fools', www.culturebase.net )