Rare work by modernist master Huang Binhong offered in Fine Chinese Paintings auction

Landscape, Huang Binhong. Estimate: £20,000 - £30,000.

Ahead of the Fine Chinese Paintings auction on 13 November, we take a closer look at a work by internationally recognised master of 20th century Chinese ink painting Huang Binhong (1865-1955) offered in the sale. Born in Jinhua in Zhejiang province, Binhong was an art theorist, historian and skilled literati painter; an East Asian type of brush painting that uses black ink. For centuries, this form of Chinese art was practiced by highly educated scholars, or 'literati.' Binhong is considered one of the last innovators in the literati style of painting and remains renowned for his freehand landscapes.

'His ink painting innovatively combines Eastern traditions with influences from Impressionist and Modernist art, visible in his adept use of light and free brushwork.' - Lazarus Halstead, Head of Asian Art

Binhong's reputation as a world-class modernist artist has been cemented in recent years. For the first half of 2017, he appeared in the top ten ranking artists sold at auction internationally, alongside Picasso, Warhol and Monet. In June, his painting Yellow Mountain sold for a record 345 million yuan (US$50.5 million) in Beijing.

The painting offered in the forthcoming sale is a rare example of his work to appear at auction in London. It depicts the landscape of Xuancheng (??), a city in North East Anhui Province in China. The work was acquired by the present owner from the successful Chinese businessman Mr. David Lau (Lau Chi Man).

The November sale also offers works by 20th Century masters Qi Baishi, Pu Ru and the female artist Fang Zhaoling, as well as classical works attributed to Wang Jian and Ba Da Shan Ren.

The full sale will be on view in Chiswick during Asian Art in London, taking place 2 November – 12 November 2017. For more information, visit the official website. 

Fine Chinese Paintings Department Page