Chu Teh-Chun (Zhu Dequn)

signed in pinyin and Chinese; signed in pinyin and Chinese, titled and dated 1960 on the reverse; Galerie H. Legendre label affixed to the stretcher on the reverse

Galerie H. Legendre, Paris
Private European Collection

Paris, Galerie H. Legendre, Chu Teh-Chun, 1962

This work is overall in good condition. There are slight craquelures across the surface. There is no evidence of restoration 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. 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."

Rouge flottant is among Chu Teh-Chun's early abstract compositions; the density of oil pigments is a distinguishing feature of that period. The lines on the canvas are powerfully strong, attesting to his physical prowess in wielding the brush. In this work, "light" is relegated to the background: brightly-coloured blocks of red, orange and yellow set off black lines akin to calligraphic strokes in the foreground. At that time in France, lyrical abstraction was all the rage among artistic circles, while Chinese cursive calligraphy was a traditional art form built upon freehand brushwork. Chu demonstrated the diverse manifestations of cursive lines similar in manner to the free spirit found in his calligraphy. As the root of language and drawing in Asian cultures, the calligraphic brush is completely different in nature to charcoal, spatulas and paintbrushes in Western culture. Many abstract artists paid much attention to calligraphic art, creating works imbued with personal style. Chu Teh-Chun grew up in a medical family with strong Confucian values. From a very young age, he studied calligraphy and traditional ink painting, both of which he practices throughout his life. His early works characterized by calligraphic lines and square blocks are commonly referred to as the "precious stones" series. By the 1980s, Chu had matured as an artist; Rouge flottant was a milestone that served as a link between his early and mature year.