Lee Man Fong

Private Collection, Australia

This work is in good overall condition as viewed. There is a small and minor area of paint loss on the rooster (the one at the back), another small area of paint loss at the bottom feathers of the rooster (the one in the front), and one small area at the bottom right corner. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals no sign of restoration as viewed. 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

As we celebrate an auspicious start to the year of the Fire Rooster, Sotheby’s is proud to bring to auction one of Lee Man Fong’s finest paintings of a rooster – a rare subject in his oeuvre.

The way in which Lee Man Fong paints roosters is a radical departure from his other works. Here, the background is rendered in light washes of paint, reflecting the serenity and lightness of medium in traditional Chinese in art. However, the rooster in the foreground stands in stark contrast to the gentle strokes in depicting natural formations: Lee Man Fong does not hesitate in bringing forth the boldness of personality fitting for a creature of such stature. He renders the rooster in broad, spirited impasto brushes of colour -  it holds an almost Impressionistic quality reminiscent of works of artists such as Mary Cassatt. This innovates on a long-standing genre in the footsteps of artists such as Qi Baishi, Zhang Daqian and Xu Beihong, a close friend of Lee Man Fong’s.

Furthermore, this piece is notable for the rooster’s colour and gaze, conveying its fiery yang spirit. Roosters represent civil virtues, martial virtues, confidence, kindness and domestic protection, sentiments thoroughly conveyed in Lee Man Fong’s piece. This majestic rooster stands tall, his eyes staring right at the viewer, highlighted by its rich plume. These yang elements are balanced by the yin of the hen behind him and the calmness of the background, creating a balanced and propitious composition suited for a boisterous year to come.