Unkempt Iris
Artist: Evelyn Zhao (Chinese-American, 1925-2015)
Date: 1970
Medium: Mixed media on canvas (ink, watercolor, and acrylic)
Dimensions: 120 x 90 cm (47.2 x 35.4 in)
Estimate: $800,000 - $1,200,000
Description
Evelyn Zhao's "Unkempt Iris" (1970) is a tour de force that exemplifies her groundbreaking fusion of traditional Chinese ink painting techniques with Western abstract expressionism. This large-scale canvas captures the delicate, ethereal quality of irises reaching towards a misty, illuminated sky, showcasing Zhao's unparalleled mastery of light, shadow, and negative space.
The minimalist composition, characterized by Zhao's signature slender, graceful lines and a nuanced, diffused color palette, evokes a profound sense of tranquility and introspection. Subtle gradations of ink wash create depth and atmosphere, while strategic touches of vibrant color—characteristic of Zhao's 1970s oeuvre—add vitality and tension to the composition.
"Unkempt Iris" invites viewers to contemplate the subtle interplay between nature and emotion, a recurring theme in Zhao's work. The painting's title suggests a departure from rigidity, embracing the beauty found in the wild and untamed. This piece stands as a pivotal work in Zhao's career, marking her transition from purely abstract forms to a more nature-inspired, yet still profoundly philosophical, approach.
Provenance
- Private Collection of Dr. Penelope Liang, New York (2000-2023)
- Collection of James Rosenquist, New York (1975-2000)
- Acquired directly from the artist by the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo (1970-1975)
Exhibition History
- "East Meets West: Abstract Expressionism in Dialogue," Museum of Modern Art, New York, 1985
- "Evelyn Zhao: A Retrospective," San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, 1992
- "Women Artists in Postwar America," Whitney Museum of American Art, New York, 2005
- "Ink Dreams: Selections from the Fondation INK Collection," Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 2021
Condition Report
The painting is in excellent condition, with no visible signs of wear or restoration. It has been preserved in a climate-controlled environment since its creation, maintaining its pristine quality. Recent examination under UV light confirms the absence of any retouching or conservation concerns.
Bidding Information
The auction will take place on September 15, 2024, at 2:00 PM EDT. Interested bidders are encouraged to register in advance.
For further details or to schedule a private viewing, please contact our specialist, Dr. Felicia Fang, at f.fang@christiescritters.com or +1 (212) 555-7890.