Zao Wou-Ki

Collection particulière, Paris

The colours of the work are fairly accurate in the catalogue illustration, although the original has more contrast. The work is in good condition and is executed on its original canvas, it is unlined. Under UV light, no trace of retouching is visible. A tiny scratch (2 mm) is visible upon close inspection (also visible in the catalogue illustration) in the upper right quadrant of the work. The third lower section of the work shows regular signs of sound and stable cracks (visible in the catalogue illustration) inherent to painting shrinkage, although this would appear inherent to the artist's working process.
"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."

signed; signed and dated on the back; oil on canvas. Executed on June 20, 1964.

La puissance créatrice de l'artiste s'amplifie en 1964, l'une des années les plus fécondes de Zao Wou-Ki. L'artiste peint des vastes surfaces et des petits formats, l'exécution de ces derniers étant jugée plus difficile. Composition du 20 juin 1964 démontre cette virtuosité, d'autant qu'elle précède et s'apparente, sans pour autant être préméditée, à l'important Hommage à Edgar Varèse (25-10-64), tableau dans lequel le souffle inspiré du peintre s'accorde aux harmonies grandioses du compositeur où tout l'espace tressaille sous les ondes alternées d'ambres et de noir. (Jean Leymarie, Zao Wou-Ki, Paris, 1978)

Fig.1. Zao Wou-Ki, Hommage à Edgar Varèse - 25.10.64 (255 x 345 cm), Collection particulière, photo Dennis Bouchard, Paris © Archvies Zao Wou-Ki, Paris.