ZHONG CHENG

  • Zhong Cheng 2024 Spring Auction「Modern And Contemporary Art」
    • Download

    134

    CHU TEHCHUN (1920-2014 )

    No. 546

    1975

    Oil on Canvas
    65 x 92 cm

    Signed Chu Tehchun in Chinese and English Signed on the reverse: No. 546

    Estimate TWD 17,000,000-25,000,000
    USD 528,100-776,600
    HKD 0-0

    Hammer Price TWD 19,200,000
    USD 601,033
    HKD 4,816,859

With a certificate of authenticity from Chu Teh-Chun Foundation

Provenance：

Illustrated：

Exhibition：

Exposition：This work has been certified by the Chu Teh-Chun Foundation and will be included in the Chu Teh-Chun Foundation\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s archive.

In 1970, the “Rembrandt 300th Anniversary Memorial Exhibition” in Amsterdam sparked a profound shift in Chu Teh-Chun's artistic approach. It was here that he encountered the true essence of art: "sincerity above all." Recognizing that genuine creativity resonates deeply with viewers, Chu embarked on a transformative journey, breaking free from his previous artistic constraints. He shared, "While Rembrandt's use of light adds depth and solidity to his paintings... I paint from within, capturing the light of my own soul. My motivation stems from an inward exploration."

Drawing inspiration from Rembrandt's masterful manipulation of light in 17th-century portraits, Chu rekindled his appreciation for the pivotal role of light, likening it to the soul of a painting—a natural emanation essential for timeless impact. This revelation led him to infuse his works with introspective depth, exploring the interplay of light and shadow as a narrative theme. His exhibitions across Europe, including France, Luxembourg, Italy, and Germany, propelled him to the zenith of his career in the 1980s, energizing his artistic journey.

Art critic Shui Tianzhong aptly described Chu's abstract compositions as both refreshing and familiar to connoisseurs of Chinese art. Each stroke evoked vivid imagery—perhaps misty waves or ancient village festivities—offering a unique blend of Eastern aesthetics amidst a predominantly Western art scene.

Chu's mastery lay in transcending traditional boundaries, seamlessly blending Western techniques with Eastern sensibilities. Unlike his contemporaries, Chu's brushwork conveyed a depth of expression reminiscent of classical Chinese calligraphy, infusing his compositions with a timeless elegance.

In Chu's world, every painting was a poetic exploration, an invitation to contemplate the eternal dance of light and shadow. "Composition No. 546" epitomized this ethos, drawing viewers into a mesmerizing interplay of colors and forms that transcended the bounds of time and space. It was a testament to Chu's ability to evoke profound emotion and introspection, offering a glimpse into the soul of both artist and viewer.

As we reflect on Chu Teh-Chun's legacy, we are reminded of his singular contribution to the world of art. Through his unwavering dedication and sincere brushwork, he bridged cultural divides, enriching the global artistic landscape with his unique blend of Eastern philosophy and Western technique. Truly, Chu Teh-Chun's paintings are more than mere compositions—they are windows to a world where light and shadow converge, inviting us to explore the boundless realms of imagination and creativity.

View More Works