Tran Van Tho

The work is in good condition overall, as is the silk, free from foxing and runs. Light discoloration is evident on the silk, however only evident upon close observation. Four miniscule holes are visible in the curtain, located in the upper right corner. Under ultraviolet inspection there are no signs of restoration. Unframed.
"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."

The North Vietnamese painter Tran Van Tho is one of the students who had to exile to the South because they could not pursue their studies at the School of Fine Arts of Hanoi when the war broke out in 1945. His life and artistic production was shared between France and Vietnam: he had the opportunity to work and exhibit in France, then came back to Vietnam to teach and later could come back to France where he finished his life. 

He excels in painting on silk and his subject of preference consists in the depiction of Vietnamese women, in intimist scenes riddled with obvious cultural references to his homeland. Until the end of his life it seems that Tran Van Tho tried to perpetuate the tradition of the School of Fine Arts of Hanoi. His style is certainly in line with the identity of modern Vietnamese painting from the 30's to the 50's