WANG XUETAO MANDARIN DUCKS PAINTING

拍品描述

Artist: Wang Xuetao (1903-1982) LOTUS AND MANDARIN DUCKS Wang Xuetao was among the most celebrated modern masters of Chinese flower-and-bird painting. A disciple of Qi Baishi, he developed a highly personal style distinguished by spontaneous brushwork, lyrical compositions, and a keen observation of the natural world.This elegant hanging scroll depicts a pair of mandarin ducks resting beneath lotus leaves and blossoms. Executed with fluid brushstrokes and restrained color, the broad ink washes of the lotus leaves contrast beautifully with the delicately rendered flowers and vividly colored birds. The composition conveys a quiet atmosphere of harmony and companionship.Mandarin ducks have long symbolized marital happiness and fidelity in Chinese culture, while lotus flowers represent purity and nobility. Their combination creates an auspicious subject expressing conjugal harmony, virtue, and enduring affection.The painting exemplifies Wang Xuetao?s mature style, in which expressive ink techniques are balanced by refined coloration and a sensitive appreciation of nature. Through a few economical strokes, the artist captures both the vitality of the birds and the tranquil beauty of the lotus pond, demonstrating the freshness and poetic spirit that distinguish his work. Ink and color on paper, Ersebiao mount, Double Jingyan on top, Vertical Axis Hanging Scroll Painting (Sight): 68cm H x 33cm W Signed/Seal(s): Signed, with three seals PROVENANCE: Acquired from a prominent collector, representing an important private collections. The collections presented and offered up to auctions from Lot 25 through Lot 136; and additional related documents and or manuscripts from Lot 137 to Lot 228. Wei Tao-Ming (Wei Daoming), (October 28, 1899 - May 18, 1978) was a prominent Chinese diplomat, statesman, and senior official of the Republic of China. Born in Jiangxi Province, he studied law in the United States and became active in the Nationalist government under Chiang Kai-shek. During the Second World War, Wei served as the Republic of China's Ambassador to the United States from 1942 to 1946, playing an important role in strengthening Sino-American relations during the Allied war effort. He later held several key government positions, including Governor of Taiwan Province (1947-1949), Ambassador to Japan, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China from 1966 to 1971. Wei remained an influential figure in Chinese diplomacy throughout the mid-twentieth century and was closely involved in the Republic of China's international affairs during a period of major political transition in East Asia. ARTIST BIO: Wang Xuetao (1903-1982)Wang Xuetao was one of the foremost Chinese painters of the twentieth century, celebrated for his expressive flower-and-bird paintings. Born in Hebei province, he studied at the Beijing Academy of Fine Arts under the renowned master Qi Baishi and later developed a highly individual style distinguished by lively brushwork, brilliant color, and a deep observation of nature.Specializing in flowers, birds, insects, and small animals, Wang combined the spontaneity of the xieyi (freehand) tradition with careful attention to form and movement. His paintings convey vitality and poetic charm, transforming ordinary subjects such as chrysanthemums, peonies, sparrows, cicadas, and goldfish into vibrant artistic expressions.Throughout his career, Wang served as a professor at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing and became an influential figure in modern Chinese painting. His works were widely exhibited both in China and abroad, earning recognition for their freshness, elegance, and technical mastery.Today, Wang Xuetao is regarded as one of the leading modern masters of the flower-and-bird genre. His paintings remain highly sought after by collectors for their spirited compositions, refined brushwork, and enduring celebration of the natural world.

图片