Cheong Soo Pieng

Private Collection, Singapore (Acquired directly from the artist)

Singapore, Singapore Art Museum, Cheong Soo Pieng: Bridging Worlds, September 16, 2010 - December 26, 2010

Yeo Wei Wei, Cheong Soo Pieng: Visions of Southeast Asia, The National Art Gallery, Singapore, 2010, p.196, colourplate (the measurement in the publication is incorrect)

This painting is in good condition, as is the canvas. There is evidence of soft craquelures, primarily on the man's hat and the lower left (brown paint) and a few minor pin sized paint losses on the lower left of the margin. A slight undulation is observed on the upper left corner of the painting (on the purple paint). The paint layers are in stable condition. Examination under ultraviolet light showed indication of restoration, primarily dispersed on the top half of the painting and the bottom margin. Framed.
"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.
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"Colour in the subject" is not mere decoration but "the main theme" itself in Soo Pieng's artworks, while colours in the background and foreground play supporting roles. These different roles of colour in different parts of a work are carefully appointed and balanced to produce "harmony." Even at his most figurative, Soo Pieng is a consummate artist of the abstract. The relationship between colour and composition in his art demonstrates the practical way in which colour is used to structure and articulate his thoughts and feelings about a subject. The harmony that is the effect of the balance of "colours and variations in tones" is also the effect of an idea expressed fluently, unaffectedly, pleasingly.

YEO WEI WEI, CHEONG SOO PIENG: VISION OF SOUTHEAST ASIA, THE NATIONAL ART GALLERY, SINGAPORE, 2010, P.180.