Zao Wou-Ki (Zhao Wuji)

signed in pinyin and Chinese (lower right); signed and titled (reverse)
Executed in 1962

The Redfern Gallery, London
Acquired by the present owner from The Redfern Gallery in 1962

Aside from a hairline scratch at the lower right and craquelure in the thicker areas of paint, this work is in satisfactory visual condition.
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In the autumnal, bronze-green background colours of 4.1.62, Zao Wou-ki has successfully blended together layers of similar colours in a dramatically contrasting compositional arrangement.  He has depicted the birth of the universe as a magnificent primitive world; centralised, rapid brushstrokes and layer upon layer of black lines pulsate as if shocked by an electric current.  The whole canvas springs to life under the artist's brush. 

A focal point of interest in this painting is the white source of light, applied with the pressure of a palette knife amongst the depths of dark colour.  As if suggesting that "even in the dark of night, the light of hope lives on", Zao has added a touch of life to the heaviness of the composition.  This work serves as an excellent place from which the viewer can interpret the art and life of Zao Wou-ki.