ATTRIBUTED TO WEN ZHENGMING | ODE TO THE RED CLIFF IN RUNNING SCRIPT

signed Zhengming, dated guimao of the Jiajing reign, the tenth day of the seventh lunar month, with two seals of the artist, zheng ming yin, wu yan shi yin With four collectors' seals of the Chew family, liao dong qiu yong he cang (2), yun meng wu zhong ying cang (2), qiu fu lun cang hua (2)with one other collector's seal, zhi ling shen ding

- Silk bears a grey tone, with surface wear, fraying threads and some areas of loss.
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 Li Damu observed in his research article: "The silk is in good condition without damage and the scroll is well mounted. The head paper and the tail paper are the old paper made in Tsing dynasty which is smooth and of fine texture and lovely. The two ends of the scroll are of red porcelain. The wrapping is of swastika brocade. The clasp is of white jade. The year Kwei Mao in the reign of Chia Ching is 1543 A.D., when Wen was 74 years old. Though the style is close to that of the Wag father and son, yet as abundant vitality is found in the word structure and movement, it is replete of unique charm like the moving of clouds and flowing water with a natural movement; the moving spirit is continuous with alternate quick and slow movements; form and arrangement especially show his artistry. It is what Sun Kuo Ting of Tang dynasty called 'at the time of inspiration, both man and writing are ripe and mellow.' This piece has bone and flesh in appropriate proportion and lively spirit; it is undoubtedly the satisfying piece of done in the last years of Wen's life."