A Chinese painting out of 1924 is expected to bring at least $45 million in a Hong Kong auction
HONG KONG — A Chinese painting out of 1924 is expected to bring at least $45 million in a market in Hong Kong, as collectors’ desire for artwork continues to grow even amid economic instability caused by this coronavirus pandemic.
The painting by powerful Chinese contemporary artist Xu Beihong depicts a servant hiding in a cave along with a lion.
Xu often utilizes the lion in his own job to exemplify his religion in the increase of the Chinese state. The lion at the painting is injured, but stays dignified, righteous and joyful — a sign of the Chinese soul, the auction house said.
The”Slave and Lion” painting is thought to be a revolutionary work that prompted Xu’s subsequent paintings and among the most crucial oil paintings in Chinese history.
“Xu Beihong himself is among the most significant contemporary artist in China that has affected generations of artists and painters,” explained Francis Belin, President of Christie’s at Asia Pacific. “This sort of job and that type of size, and that type of prestige, doesn’t come into the industry frequently.”
The painting is estimated to bring between $45 million to $58 million at a single-lot market on May 24.
Belin stated there’s a varied appetite for contemporary and modern masterpieces and the marketplace is anticipated to stay strong.