Ahmad Zakii Anwar Sold at Auction Prices

b. 1955 -

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  • AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR | Dancer
    Dec. 17, 2024

    AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR | Dancer

    Est: S$1,500 - S$2,500

    Watercolor on paper: 30 x 20 cm Signed, lower right: Ahmad Zakii Anwar

    Global Auction
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Yosemite, 2015
    Dec. 08, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Yosemite, 2015

    Est: RM5,000 - RM9,000

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar's striking portrait conveys the character of a male figure. Located in eastern central California, the Yosemite region is known for its marvellous natural landscape of granite cliffs, waterfalls, valleys, and diverse range of wildlife. The artist captures the arresting gaze of the male figure through his expressive brushwork. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (Richard Koh FA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1994
    Dec. 08, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1994

    Est: RM20,000 - RM38,000

    A study on the interplay of light, a young woman seated in a quiet space is depicted in a graceful, realistic style. The elaborate ornamental patterns and fabric of the woman's clothes is rendered in great detail. Painted with a light sense of touch, the calm atmosphere in this work is achieved by elegant harmonies of colours, and skill in portraying the luminous tones of the skin. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (Richard Koh FA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled

    Est: RM39,000 - RM70,000

    A cigarette between the lips of the face with a bulbous nose adds to a sense of vacuity and a film noir theatricality. In the juxtaposition of a rose, a white horse and a man — God's creations — against the emblematic sickle moon with a cloud in between, it's regarding spiritual unity. A solitary white horse stands below, more like a paper-weight adornment in a Magic Realism insertion rather than a pitch at symbolism, either good or bad. Ahmad Zakii composes works that delve into the darker fringes of society and one's inner psyche and the mystical aura. He has created his own brand of New Urban Realism of Figures, and is also adept at creating layers of meaning in his still-life, interiors and large animal depictions. A graduate in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he gave up a lucrative career in advertising to become a full time painter and was an instant hit with his Smokers Series in 1997. His solo, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008, established him as a major figurative artist. His notable foreign solos include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); My Shadow's Shadow (Baik Art, South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (Singapore Tyler Print Institute, 2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1999). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter Of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Legong 7 & 5, 2004
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Legong 7 & 5, 2004

    Est: RM8,000 - RM14,000

    The Legong, a highly elaborate form of dance, is rendered by Ahmad Zakii Anwar. Originating in Bali during the 19th century, the Legong narrates ancient Javanese tales through expressive gestures of the hands and feet. The precise and crisp rendition of the dance movements reflect the artist's skill. A graduate of Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii Anwar left his successful advertising career in pursuit of becoming a full-time artist. He came to attention with his virtuosity and command of a spectrum of media from charcoals to oils, building a reputation for stunning photorealistic still-life paintings and expressive portraits making him a master of Urban Realism. His career milestones were noted in 2007 when he joined the premier ranks in the artist's workshop project at the Singapore Tyler Print Institute and a mid-career survey exhibition Disclosure held at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur in 2008. He had a number of notable exhibitions abroad such as Bones and Sinews, Andrewshire Gallery (USA, 2011), Kota Sunyi, C.P. Art Space (Indonesia, 2007), Shadowland, Plum Blossoms Gallery (Hong Kong, 2001) and Presence, Barbara Greene Fine Art (USA, 1999). He participated in an artist residency program hosted by Baik Art in Jeju Island, Korea in October 2013.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Legong, 2004
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Legong, 2004

    Est: RM8,000 - RM14,000

    The Legong, a highly elaborate form of dance, is rendered by Ahmad Zakii Anwar. Originating in Bali during the 19th century, the Legong narrates ancient Javanese tales through expressive gestures of the hands and feet. The precise and crisp rendition of the dance movements reflect the artist's skill. A graduate of Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii Anwar left his successful advertising career in pursuit of becoming a full-time artist. He came to attention with his virtuosity and command of a spectrum of media from charcoals to oils, building a reputation for stunning photorealistic still-life paintings and expressive portraits making him a master of Urban Realism. His career milestones were noted in 2007 when he joined the premier ranks in the artist's workshop project at the Singapore Tyler Print Institute and a mid-career survey exhibition Disclosure held at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur in 2008. He had a number of notable exhibitions abroad such as Bones and Sinews, Andrewshire Gallery (USA, 2011), Kota Sunyi, C.P. Art Space (Indonesia, 2007), Shadowland, Plum Blossoms Gallery (Hong Kong, 2001) and Presence, Barbara Greene Fine Art (USA, 1999). He participated in an artist residency program hosted by Baik Art in Jeju Island, Korea in October 2013.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2000
    May. 19, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2000

    Est: RM27,000 - RM40,000

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar's still-life painting is aimed at a polished finish with a harmony of vegetables and fruit, arranged on a table against a smooth umber wall. Executed on a square canvas, the work adheres to the classical principles of still life, yet laden with symbolic representations. Filled with sensual emotion, atmospheric effects of light and shadow, the works of this series are both evocative and timeless. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1994
    May. 19, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1994

    Est: RM25,000 - RM45,000

    A study on the interplay of light, a young woman seated in a quiet space is depicted in a graceful, realistic style. The elaborate ornamental patterns and fabric of the woman's clothes is rendered in great detail. Painted with a light sense of touch, the calm atmosphere in this work is achieved by elegant harmonies of colours, and skill in portraying the luminous tones of the skin. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1994
    May. 19, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1994

    Est: RM25,000 - RM45,000

    Dressed in traditional woven textiles, the lady exudes a timeless and elegant beauty. Set against a warm and dark background which gives a relaxed charm, the artist depicts a young woman with long dark hair falling over her soft, luminous skin. The calm and soft mood in this work is achieved by delicate brushwork, elegant harmonies of colours, and the refined treatment of the figure. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar; Reclining Figure 17
    Mar. 23, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar; Reclining Figure 17

    Est: S$12,000 - S$17,000

    Lot: 818, Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955, Malaysian), Reclining Figure 17, executed in 2015, charcoal on paper, 59 x 207 cm, signed and dated,Pick up Point: Singapore, Tags: Malaysian, Malaysia, modern, drawing, figure IMPORTANT INFO Bidders need to know We encourage all buyers to check for condition reports and or other photos before bidding. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is free from damage and wear. Please go through photos for more details on conditions and age; color will be different depends on your screen. All the items are sold as is and all sales are final. We encourage all bidders to review our terms and conditions before bidding. Please contact us through email info@larasati.com if you need any further information.

    Larasati Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Nasirun, 2016
    Jan. 14, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Nasirun, 2016

    Est: RM26,000 - RM36,000

    Executed in raw earthy colours that exude warmth, this portrait of famous Indonesian artist Nasirun focuses on the physiognomy viewed from a side profile. The subtle contrast of light and dark on the face are carefully observed by the artist and succeeds to convey the character of the sitter. It's a deeply psychological ‘portrait', serious at once, and contemplative too, typical of Ahmad Zakii's innate brand of dark Urban Realism. Ahmad Zakii composes works that delve into the darker fringes of society and one's inner psyche and the mystical aura. He has created his own brand of New Urban Realism of Figures, and is also adept at creating layers of meaning in his still-life, interiors and large animal depictions. A graduate in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he gave up a lucrative career in Advertising to become a fulltime painter and was an instant hit with his Smokers Series in 1997. His solo, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008, established him as a major figurative artist. His notable foreign solos include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Batik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia – Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore – Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (Singapore Tyler, 2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan. His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Affirmation And Denial, 1999-2002
    Jan. 14, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Affirmation And Denial, 1999-2002

    Est: RM35,000 - RM60,000

    Executed on canvas, Affirmation And Denial displays Zakii's strong command of representing the human form. Zakii's portraits are reflections of the human condition as much as they are extensive explorations of the artist's spiritual and cosmological inquiries of the mind and body. Ahmad Zakii Ahmad made a fairytale switch from a lucrative Advertising career to Fine Art, and hit it big with his early Smokers Series (1997), and following up with a list of stupendous series leading to his mid-career survey exhibition, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. He was invited for solos in the United States, South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore (Tyler Print), Zakii graduated with a Graphic Design diploma from the Mara Institute of Technology (1977).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 2004
    Jan. 14, 2024

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 2004

    Est: RM40,000 - RM70,000

    From ancient Greek mythology of Aphrodite and Venus de Milo to the Japanese ukiyo-e erotica and the voluptuary of the Chinese Yang Kwei-fei to the apsara dancers and statuary of ancient India, the Female Figure, nude or half nude, has dominated Art, Culture and History. Or are the ancient kings debauchers? Sometimes, the female nude is edified as the Mother Earth goddess or deified as a pantheon to be worshipped for specific purposes in life, like for fertility. In modern art like that of a Modigliani, it has become a symbol of the spiritual communion between artist and model. Why are there statues mostly of nude females, most probably because the sculptors were men, or the Male Gaze as it were, but these male sculptors had also done numerous male nudes for example, Michelangelo and in Photography, Robert Mapplethorpe. Ahmad Zakii Anwar's painting of a statue of a semi-nude female is couched in some form of ritual or religiosity. And is the placement of stones a Zen conundrum? Ahmad Zakii Ahmad made a fairytale switch from a lucrative Advertising career to Fine Art, and hit it big with his early Smokers Series (1997), and following up with a list of stupendous series leading to his mid-career survey exhibition, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. He was invited for solos in the United States, South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore (Tyler Print), Zakii graduated with a Graphic Design diploma from the Mara Institute of Technology (1977).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR (B. 1955) Imagine 1 & 2 oil on linen, diptych each: 46 x
    Oct. 20, 2023

    AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR (B. 1955) Imagine 1 & 2 oil on linen, diptych each: 46 x

    Est: $40,000 - $100,000

    AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR (B. 1955) Imagine 1 & 2 oil on linen, diptych each: 46 x 78.6 cm. (18 1⁄8 x 31 in.) (2) overall: 46 x 157.2 cm. (18 1⁄8 x 61 7⁄8 in.) (2)

    Christie's
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2022
    Oct. 01, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2022

    Est: RM25,000 - RM38,000

    The shape of the pear, when stood on its base, it resembles somewhat Man Ray's record-breaking Le Violon d'Ingres (1924) photograph of model Kiki de Montparnasse's nude back. But surely the cynosure is the plant which bifurcates at the top like a grand leafy plumage gesture. On the other side, near the edge of the wooden stand, is a white porcelain teapot with a wicker handle, but with the short spout pointing ‘away' from the two other objects. Ahmad Zakii Ahmad's career is phenomenal since giving up a lucrative Advertising career to paint fulltime, starting from his sold-out Smokers Series in 1997. He graduated with a Graphic Design diploma from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977. And in 2008, he was accorded a mid-career survey, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, already with a range of astounding series. Solos in the United States (Presence, 1999; Bones and Sinews, 2011), South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore attest to his calibre.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2022
    Oct. 01, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2022

    Est: RM25,000 - RM38,000

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar's still-life painting is aimed at a polished finish with a harmony of ripe fruits, enamelware, and the table against a smooth ash-grey wall. Executed on canvas, the refined painting adheres to the classical principles of still life, yet laden with symbolic representations. Filled with sensual emotion, atmospheric effects of light and shadow, the works of this series are both evocative and timeless. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan. His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2022
    Oct. 01, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2022

    Est: RM25,000 - RM38,000

    Demonstrating his skill at rendering the forms of still life, Zakii's elegant arrangement depicts luscious pomegranate fruit and man-made vessels on top of a wooden table. Rooted in scenes from the everyday, Zakii's still life paintings explore spatial volume while highlighting the contrast of different textures, with an intuitive colour palette. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan. His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2022
    Oct. 01, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Still Life, 2022

    Est: RM25,000 - RM38,000

    Juxtaposition of a dainty white orchid in a small crucible with two peaches and a large kendi with long spout and tripod (quadopod) legs in the middle. Only the flower pot and kendi are stood upright, the peaches are placed on the sides. It is also an arrangement of colours: the white petals and green leaves and stalks, the copper finish of the kendi, and the pinkish-yellow skin of the peaches. The kendi has a curious shape with a billowing base at the bottom, for better storing drinking water. The only thing living are the orchid blooms, while there is nourishment from the peaches and the water from the kendi. The eye, however, gets invariably drawn to the stub or knob off centre on the wooden stand. Ahmad Zakii Ahmad's career is phenomenal since giving up a lucrative Advertising career to paint fulltime, starting from his sold-out Smokers Series in 1997. He graduated with a Graphic Design diploma from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977. And in 2008, he was accorded a mid-career survey, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, already with a range of astounding series. Solos in the United States (Presence, 1999; Bones and Sinews, 2011), South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore attest to his calibre.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Legong 12, 2021
    Oct. 01, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Legong 12, 2021

    Est: RM90,000 - RM140,000

    The Legong is one of the most mesmeric and graceful Balinese dances to watch, with the nubile dancers clad in tight shimmering gold-embroidered costumes, to entrancing gamelan music. It demands total expressions of every part of the body, from face and finger gestures and nifty footwork to the head tilt and hip sway. While tied to a fable, it is also a palliative cleansing ritual. This dance with the swaying of fans is probably the Legong Kraton. The artist, Ahmad Zakii Anwar, first unveiled his Balinese works in the Distant Gamelan exhibition at Art Focus Gallery in Singapore in 1998. He had intoned in 1999: "I believe in an artform that represents the physical and spiritual nature of Man, the journey that he undertakes in search of himself and the endless permutations of that journey." Ahmad Zakii Ahmad's career is phenomenal since giving up a lucrative Advertising career to paint fulltime, starting from his sold-out Smokers Series in 1997. He graduated with a Graphic Design diploma from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977. And in 2008, he was accorded a mid-career survey, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, already with a range of astounding series. Solos in the United States (Presence, 1999; Bones and Sinews, 2011), South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore attest to his calibre.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Rendezvous, 1999
    Jun. 25, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Rendezvous, 1999

    Est: RM50,000 - RM80,000

    Executed on canvas, Rendezvous displays Zakii's strong command of representing the human form. Zakii's portraits are reflections of the human condition as much as they are extensive explorations of the artist's spiritual and cosmological inquiries of the mind and body. His dreamlike, meditative compositions evoke a strong response. Ahmad Zakii Anwar's art career is paved with flowers. After graduating in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology, he made a lucrative career in advertising. His debut solo with the Smokers series in 1997 proved hugely successful, culminating in a major mid-career survey in 2008, called Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas. A yellowbrick road of international solos followed: the United States, Indonesia, Hong Kong, South Korea and Singapore.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1997
    Jun. 25, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1997

    Est: RM60,000 - RM90,000

    It's like pretty maids in a row, with some of the best porcelain in various shapes and forms paraded on a classic Chinese mantelpiece. A small vessel, a vase with open rim, a bowl with fitting lid, a pitcher with handles at the sides, a bowl with an upraised tube bottom and a plate stood on a stand. They look antique and more durable with decorative motifs, for some kind of pedigree, rather than just utility tableware. Maybe not of the class of Jingdezhen or the older dynastic wares of old Cathay, but still collectible and looking classy. These are status symbols of finer living, where exquisite taste endows the one who collects with prestige, if not a little awe. Ahmad Zakii Ahmad made his entry into the fine-art market with fiery zeal with his Smokers Series in 1997, and his gradual rise culminated with his mid-career survey show, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. A former advertising maven, he excels in painting figures, animals, sofa and still-life with suggestive narratives. Zakii graduated from the Mara Institute of Technology with a diploma in Design. He had solo exhibitions in the United States, South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore, and is one of the selected global artists of Tyler Print.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Milenko; Bencab; Jim; Syed Ahmad, 2008
    Jun. 25, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Milenko; Bencab; Jim; Syed Ahmad, 2008

    Est: RM3,000 - RM5,500

    This set of 4 prints by Ahmad Zakii features prominent artists and curators from Southeast Asia. Ahmad Zakii Anwar's realist works depict the human figure within the spaces of Malaysia's urban environment. His works are imbued with a cinematic quality, enabling the viewer to unearth and discover the human form along with its physical and spiritual complexities. Zakii uses allegories to examine the intricacies and depth of human existence, creating psychological tension through the space surrounding the figure. It's destiny that Ahmad Zakii Anwar gave up a lucrative illustration career in advertising to switch to fine art paintings and in a short span of years, was given a memorable mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas in 2008. His impressive dossier then were figuratives which started from his Smokers Series and continued with his Poetic Realism, sensual still-lifes, animals and traditional dancers. His tutelage was in Graphic Design, at the Mara Institute of Technology. He had several major solos abroad including two in the United States, namely Los Angeles (AndrewShire Gallery, Presence, 1999) and New York (Bones and Sinews, Barbara Greene Gallery, 2011). The other venues were in South Korea, Indonesia (Jogjakarta, Jakarta), Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand (Bangkok).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Gopala, 1996
    Mar. 19, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Gopala, 1996

    Est: RM65,000 - RM100,000

    Listen to the mesmeric tingling of the distant gamelan as dancers in ornate costumes strut the stage for gods, demons and men, with all the rituals and romance. Whatever the dance repertoire, while it is entertaining, the spiritual essence is not lost on a true-blue Balinese and the cognoscenti. Kebyar, Jauk, Legong, Barong, Olej Tambulilingan, Pendet, Kecak, Twalen, Rangda, Rarung, and this Gopala. Ting-tong, ting-tong, tong - the crisp sounds of the brass metallophones, xylophones, flutes and reed instruments, cymbals and gongs have both dancers and audience enthralled. Like in the Kecak, the black-and-white chequered cloth of the saput is distinct with some with the longer kancut with golden motifs. This dance derived from the Sanskrit word meaning 'cowherd' is mostly performed by young male dancers imitating the bovine mannerisms of a cow. Ahmad Zakii Anwar's Bali works were shown in the Distant Gamelan exhibition at Art Focus Gallery in Singapore in 1998. Ahmad Zakii Anwar's art career is paved with flowers. After graduating in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology, he made a lucrative career in advertising. But his debut solo with the Smokers series in 1997 proved hugely successful, culminating in a major mid-career survey in 2008, called Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas. A yellow-brick road of international solos followed: the United States, Indonesia, Hong Kong, South Korea and Singapore. His local record sale hit RM115,500 (The Edge Auction, June 2013) and at Christie's Hong Kong in November 2007, it was HK$427,500 (today's rate, RM233,265).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1999
    Mar. 19, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled, 1999

    Est: RM18,000 - RM28,000

    With a bronzed well-honed body in sepia tones, the male model is rendered in a contemplative pose. Ahmad Zakii Anwar's understanding of the male anatomy, with the muscular and skeletal system, is superb. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (Richard Koh FA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled
    Mar. 19, 2023

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. 1955) Untitled

    Est: RM10,000 - RM15,000

    After the debut of the Smoking Man in Ahmad Zakii Anwar's first solo in 1995, he made a return in 2002, a 7-year-itch, in Figure At Sunrise, and the narrative developed into a full-blown episode with his inimitable Urban Realism in Kota Sunyi in 2007 in Jakarta. A sense of mystery surrounds this work which narrates a smoking figure in side profile, a way of contemplating the events that had occurred during the day. Ahmad Zakii Anwar graduated in Graphic Design at the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977. After a successful stint in Advertising, he decided to be an artist and paints fulltime. A series of memorable solos led to the Disclosure exhibition at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur in 2008, a timely mid-career survey. In 2007, he was invited by the Singapore Tyler Print Institute to do a series of prints. Zakii had solos in the United States (Barbara Green FA in 1999 and Andreshire Gallery in 2011), Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled, 1996
    Nov. 06, 2022

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled, 1996

    Est: RM15,000 - RM22,000

    A glazed pot with its round, curved surface generates visual interest, accompanied by rich shadows at its base. Ahmad Zakii's still life objects are skilfully rendered in terms of form, texture, and structure. Warm, earthy brown tones were used to unify the image, drawing the viewer's attention to the smooth and earthy material. The clean execution, spherical shapes and tactile textures in a casual setting express a feeling of modernity. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia - Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore - Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter Of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (Richard Koh FA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled, 2008
    Jul. 17, 2022

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled, 2008

    Est: RM56,000 - RM70,000

    The Gambuh dance with the main dancer, often moustachioed and crowned personifying the fictional Javanese prince from the Malat, Prince Raden Panji, is the oldest of the Balinese dances back to 15th Century Majapahit times. It has the origin status of the Japanese Noh drama and the Kathakali of Kerala, and is often accompanied by the gamelan ensemble. In the seminal book on Balinese dance, Dance and Drama in Bali (1938), Beryl de Zoete and Walter Spies wrote: “Yet there will come a moment, during a temple feast or cremation when one will become aware of a strange wailing of flutes and rebab, the clash of cymbals and clamour of strident voices rising above the gay contention of several gamelans and the tinkle of the Pedanda’s bell.” Though the story is about the separation of Prince Panji and his lover, Candra Kirana, and their eventual reunion, the artist Ahmad Zakii Anwar traces the dance repertoire as a physical and spiritual journey of Man. Ahmad Zakii Ahmad gave up a lucrative Advertising career to paint fulltime and proved a big hit with his Smokers Series in 1997, leading to his mid-career survey exhibition, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. He had solos in the United States, South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore. He graduated with a Graphic Design diploma from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Endau Rompin, 2000
    Jul. 17, 2022

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Endau Rompin, 2000

    Est: RM3,500 - RM6,000

    Executed in refined strokes using ink and watercolour on paper, the artist succeeds in capturing the enchanting morning scenic view of Endau Rompin (Johor) National Park (48,905-ha), the largest protected area in the Southern half of Peninsular Malaysia. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smoker Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Subliminal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia – Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore – Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled, 1997
    Mar. 27, 2022

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled, 1997

    Est: RM10,000 - RM20,000

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar’s nostalgic reflections on traditional domestic relics such as clay and porcelain vases and teapots are rendered in a quiet and reposed setting, executed in his sensuous photo realist manner. Here, Ahmad Zakii Anwar illustrates still life at its finest, depicting delicate porcelain with flower motifs composed in a balanced and composed ambience. Filled with sensual emotion, atmospheric effects of light and shadow, the works of this series are both evocative and timeless. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smoker Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Subliminal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia – Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore – Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled, 1997
    Mar. 27, 2022

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled, 1997

    Est: RM10,000 - RM20,000

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar’s nostalgic reflections on traditional domestic relics such as clay and porcelain vases and teapots are rendered in a quiet and reposed setting, executed in his sensuous photo realist manner. Here, Ahmad Zakii Anwar illustrates still life at its finest, depicting delicate porcelain with flower motifs composed in a balanced and composed ambience. Filled with sensual emotion, atmospheric effects of light and shadow, the works of this series are both evocative and timeless. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smoker Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Subliminal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Baik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia – Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore – Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Kecak Under A Dark Moon, 1994
    Dec. 05, 2021

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Kecak Under A Dark Moon, 1994

    Est: RM35,000 - RM50,000

    For Ahmad Zakii Anwar dealing with Realism in the later 1990s, this 1994 work of a kecak dance under the self-explanatory “dark moon” registers a clandestine ritual by a fireplace or places as a nocturnal open event. Those not following Zakii may be perplexed at first at the hazy atmosphere with off-focus figures huddled around, especially with his brand of Urban Realism (later Urban Dark Realism) from his Smokers series in 1997 onwards. After he graduated with Graphic Design at the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he went into advertising and was hugely successful. But he decided to quit to go full time into Art, and his mid-career survey exhibition (at Galeri Petronas) titled Disclosure in 2008 showed what a genius he is, and vindicated his decision to switch jobs. All his solos are well followed. His solos abroad included Presence (1999), Bones and Sinews (2011) in the United States, Kota Sunyi (Indonesia, 2007), Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001) and Baik Art (South Korea, 2013), apart from his Singapore Tyler Print stint in 2007.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled
    Dec. 05, 2021

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled

    Est: RM48,000 - RM78,000

    A cigarette between the lips of the face with a bulbous nose adds to a sense of vacuity and a film noir theatricality. In the juxtaposition of a rose, a white horse and a man — God’s creations — against the emblematic sickle moon with a cloud in between, it’s regarding spiritual unity. A solitary white horse stands below, more like a paper-weight adornment in a Magic Realism insertion rather than a pitch at symbolism, either good or bad. Ahmad Zakii composes works that delve into the darker fringes of society and one’s inner psyche and the mystical aura. He has created his own brand of New Urban Realism of Figures, and is also adept at creating layers of meaning in his still-life, interiors and large animal depictions. A graduate in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he gave up a lucrative career in advertising to become a full time painter and was an instant hit with his Smokers Series in 1997. His solo, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008, established him as a major figurative artist. His notable foreign solos include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); My Shadow's Shadow (Baik Art, South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia – Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore – Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (Singapore Tyler Print Institute, 2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1999). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter Of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Cycle Of Thoughts, 1997
    Dec. 05, 2021

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Cycle Of Thoughts, 1997

    Est: RM45,000 - RM75,000

    This portfolio of six works focuses on the face of a man in a round-collar white t-shirt, from various angles including full frontal gazing straight at the viewer. Each clip has different interventions such as words ‘printed’ in orderly lines, cursive or in regimented coloured uppercase texts, and with smudges of paints. There is play of light, with obfuscations of image and layerings, and highlights such as around the ear shape. It’s a deeply psychological ‘portrait’, serious at once, and contemplative too, with obviously darker nuances, typical of Ahmad Zakii’s innate brand of dark Urban Realism often juxtaposing with something of the traditional. Ahmad Zakii composes works that delve into the darker fringes of society and one’s inner psyche and the mystical aura. He has created his own brand of New Urban Realism of Figures, and is also adept at creating layers of meaning in his still-life, interiors and large animal depictions. A graduate in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he gave up a lucrative career in advertising to become a full time painter and was an instant hit with his Smokers Series in 1997. His solo, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008, established him as a major figurative artist. His notable foreign solos include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); My Shadow's Shadow (Baik Art, South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia – Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore – Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (Singapore Tyler Print Institute, 2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1999). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter Of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) The Perfumed Garden Series, 1994
    Aug. 22, 2021

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) The Perfumed Garden Series, 1994

    Est: RM4,500 - RM7,500

    Unlike the artist usual style this piece has its own specialty. Like a Persian style of painting during the Safavid rule of Persia. It held an intricate design that resembles Islamic art. The figure in the centre is holding an ancient musical instrument called Qanbūs while the arch in the background resembles a common shape in Islamic architectural design. The beauty of this piece lies within the colour scheme as it seems nicely blended and minimal. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Love + Lust, Galerie Huit, (Hong Kong, 2015), Please + Pain, Galerie Huit (Hong Kong, 2014), Presence (New York, 1999), Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001), Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006), Baik Art (South Korea, 2013), in Indonesia – Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010), and in Singapore — Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan. His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Icons (Richard Koh Fine Art, 2005) and Interpreter Of Desires (Taksu, 2003).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Legong, 1997
    Aug. 22, 2021

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Legong, 1997

    Est: RM3,000 - RM5,500

    On offer here is a sensitive study of a Balinese Legong dancer swiftly captured by Ahmad Zakii Anwar. Traditional Balinese dancers learn the craft as children from their mothers as soon as they are born, in the womb they are played the Balinese music and are taught to dance with their hands before they can walk. Executed in refined strokes, the artist succeeds in capturing the enchanting traditional dance of Bali. A graduate of Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii Anwar left his successful advertising career in pursuit of becoming a full-time artist. He came to attention with his virtuosity and command of a spectrum of media from charcoals to oils, building a reputation for stunning photorealistic still-life paintings and expressive portraits making him a master of Urban Realism. His career milestones were noted in 2007 when he joined the premier ranks in the artist’s workshop project at the Singapore Tyler Print Institute and a mid-career survey exhibition Disclosure held at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur in 2008. He has had a number of notable exhibitions abroad such as Bones and Sinews, Andrewshire Gallery (USA, 2011), Kota Sunyi, C.P. Art Space (Indonesia, 2007), Shadowland, Plum Blossoms Gallery (Hong Kong, 2001) and Presence, Barbara Greene Fine Art (USA, 1999). He participated in an artist residency program hosted by Baik Art in Jeju Island, Korea in October 2013. Stoned in Paris, a joint-exhibition featuring the lithographic prints of Ahmad Zakii Anwar and Jalaini Abu Hassan was organised by Fumanart in Cult Gallery in 2018.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR : Still Life, 2000
    Mar. 28, 2021

    AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR : Still Life, 2000

    Est: RM25,000 - RM32,000

    The artist began his career as a graphic artist, producing some of the leading advertising graphics of his time. From there, he continued to establish his name by converting to fine art where his techniques have been exemplary and world class. Zakii came to attention for his virtuosity and command of a spectrum of media from charcoal to oils, building a reputation for stunning photo-realist still-life paintings and expressive portraits. Later, a more contemporary edge surfaced in his works as Zakii introduced urban subjects and settings into his canvases. He is lauded for capturing not just city motifs and urban features but also a distinctive psychological dimension and cinematic quality in these scenarios. In this particular still life painting, Ahmad Zakii Anwar perfectly captures a vase along with all of its designs and motifs as well as every crease that can be seen. He brilliantly captures the light that shines onto the vase and the shadows that exist.

    KLAS Art Auction
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Incognito I, 1999
    Mar. 21, 2021

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Incognito I, 1999

    Est: RM45,000 - RM75,000

    Happiness is to lounge on the barrel-back sofa, lit cigarette in hand, puffing a plethora of wispy smoke in front of you, like some intoxication. The mood is heightened for the southpaw man in black with the subdued darken tones. The relaxed atmosphere can be seen that the man’s feet are unclad, even in socks. It may be something liberating, unlike in a public place where smoking is widely prohibited, so as not to spread ‘secondary smoke.’ The smoke, both the smell and the listless sway, also has a soporific effect while the protagonist celebrates his private moments. The smoke conceals one's true identity (as the title suggests). This work may look like a come-on advertisement for cigarette smoking. It combines two of Ahmad Zakii Anwar’s early two preoccupations, the sofa and the Smoking Man, when he first broke into the art scene in his first solo at Valentine Willie Fine Art, Kuala Lumpur, in 1997 — six years after giving-up a lucrative advertising job to go fulltime into art. Such notions of absence, and Man in his social environment, are also explored in his solo exhibition, Presence, at the Barbara Green Fine Arts in New York in 1999. Despite a first solo in 1997, Ahmad Zakii Anwar reveals a stunning repertoire of modern figures in a brand of Urban Dark Realism, sensual and mock-antique still-life, large fauna charcoals and traditional culture and dances in a short 11-year period in his mid-career Survey exhibition, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. After graduating in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he concentrated on making a mark in advertising before fulfilling his destiny as an artist. He can boast of solos abroad like Presence (1999), Bones and Sinews (2011) in the United States, Kota Sunyi (Indonesia, 2007), Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001) and Baik Art (South Korea, 2013), apart from his Singapore Tyler Print stint in 2007, etc.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR : Kechak Under a Dark Moon, 1994
    Dec. 13, 2020

    AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR : Kechak Under a Dark Moon, 1994

    Est: RM30,000 - RM50,000

    The artist began his career as a graphic artist, producing some of the leading advertising graphics of his time. From there, he continued to establish his name by converting to fine art where his techniques have been exemplary and world class. Zakii came to attention for his virtuosity and command of a spectrum of media from charcoals to oils, building a reputation for stunning photo-realist still-life paintings and expressive portraits. Later, a more contemporary edge surfaced in his works as Zakii introduced urban subjects and settings into his canvases. He is lauded for capturing not just city motifs and urban features but also a distinctive psychological dimension and cinematic quality in these scenarios.

    KLAS Art Auction
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Kecak Under A Dark Moon, 1994
    Nov. 15, 2020

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Kecak Under A Dark Moon, 1994

    Est: RM45,000 - RM75,000

    Kecak is a form of Balinese Hindu dance and music drama that was developed in the 1930s in Bali, Indonesia. For Ahmad Zakii Anwar dealing with Realism in the later 1990s, this 1994 work of a kecak dance under the self-explanatory “dark moon” registers a clandestine ritual by a fireplace or places as a nocturnal open event. A hazy atmostphere with off-focus figures huddled around is staged. After he graduated with Graphic Design at the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he went into advertising and was hugely successful. But he decided to quit to go fulltime into Art, and his mid-career survey exhibition (at Galeri Petronas) titled Disclosure in 2008 showed what a genius he is, and vindicated his decision to switch job. All his solos are well followed. His solos abroad included Presence (1999), Bones and Sinews (2011) in the United States, Kota Sunyi (Indonesia, 2007), Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001) and Baik Art (South Korea, 2013), apart from his Singapore Tyler Print stint in 2007, etc.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Cycle Of Thoughts, 1997
    Nov. 15, 2020

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Cycle Of Thoughts, 1997

    Est: RM50,000 - RM90,000

    This portfolio of six works focuses on the face of a man in a round-collar white t-shirt, from various angles including full frontal gazing straight at viewer. Each clip has different interventions such as words ‘printed’ in orderly lines, cursive or in regimented coloured uppercase texts, and with smudges of paints. There is play of light, with obfuscations of image and layerings, and highlights such as around the ear shape. It’s a deeply psychological ‘portrait,’ serious at once, and contemplative too, with obviously darker nuances, typical of Ahmad Zakii’s innate brand of dark Urban Realism often juxtaposing with something of the traditional. Ahmad Zakii composes works that delve into the darker fringes of society and one’s inner psyche and the mystical aura. He has created his own brand of New Urban Realism of Figures, and is also adept at creating layers of meaning in his still-life, interiors and large animal depictions. A graduate in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he gave up a lucrative career in Advertising to become a fulltime painter and was an instant hit with his Smokers Series in 1997. His solo, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008, established him as a major figurative artist. His notable foreign solos include Presence (New York, 1999); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006); Batik Art (South Korea, 2013); in Indonesia – Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010); and in Singapore – Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (Singapore Tyler, 2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan (1981). His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Interpreter Of Desires (Taksu, 2003) and Icons (RKFA, 2005).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Two Men, 2012
    Nov. 15, 2020

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Two Men, 2012

    Est: RM75,000 - RM100,000

    Two men in a darkened interior, the dim light creating shadows on their white shirts. Initially, they look like chatting with each other, and from the body language, maybe a confrontation. The one in foreground, back turned towards viewer, has his hands on the sides, while the one facing camera, looks cool with one hand in pocket and the other holding a cigarette on his purported left hand, but then it could be a mirror image, and if so, the man on the right is walking away from view. There is a palpable tension in this sepia-toned drama reminiscent of Ahmad Zakii Anwar’s Smokers Series, which catapulted him to fame and popularity in his artistic debut in 1997. It’s a style that is to expand into a brand of Urban Poetic Realism, found in his works in his Kota Sunyi (2007) and Kota Sepi (2012), with the setting in Kuala Lumpur. The acrylic on linen work, Two Men, is similar in theme and style to the works in Kota Sepi, which, however, all in charcoal on paper and smaller in size. It’s destiny that Ahmad Zakii Anwar gave up a lucrative illustration career in advertising to switch to fine art paintings and in a short span of years, was given a memorable mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas in 2008. His impressive dossier then were figuratives which started from his Smokers Series and continued with his Poetic Realism, sensual still-lifes, animals and traditional dancers. His tutelage was in Graphic Design, at the Mara Institute of Technology. He had several major solos abroad including two in the United States, namely Los Angeles (AndrewShire Gallery, Presence, 1999) and New York (Bones and Sinews, Barbara Greene Gallery, 2011). The other venues were in South Korea, Indonesia (Jogjakarta, Jakarta), Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand (Bangkok).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR : Untitled, 2002
    Sep. 06, 2020

    AHMAD ZAKII ANWAR : Untitled, 2002

    Est: RM6,000 - RM12,000

    Sensual and enigmatic are two words that fit this painting well. The artist captures here a profile of a nude male figure, his face undisclosed. The piece oozes absolute allure, sophistication and depth, as well as spirituality. “It’s painting the body from the inside out,” Ahmad Zakii Anwar says. “One of the most important things in my work is the sense of something absolute. I want to reflect the order of life, as well as internal beauty,” he said. “I want to paint something more spiritual. I want people who look at the work to feel inner peace.”

    KLAS Art Auction
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled
    Aug. 23, 2020

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled

    Est: RM5,000 - RM8,000

    Here, Ahmad Zakii used a cinematic approach to blend still life and landscape in a unique composition. It is rendered in dark hues of blue, purple, contrasted against bright yellow. A highly contemplative mood, and pictorial balance is achieved with the artist’s refined use of colours. After graduating with Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii had a lucrative career in Advertising but decided to switch to Fine Art. He was an immediate hit with his cool Smokers Series (1997) and his dark vignettes of urban realism. A series of significant solos abroad and at home led to his major mid-career survey exhibition called Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. His solos abroad include Love + Lust, Galerie Huit, (Hong Kong, 2015), Please + Pain, Galerie Huit (Hong Kong, 2014), Presence (New York, 1999), Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001), Sublimal (The Philippines and also Thailand, 2006), Baik Art (South Korea, 2013), in Indonesia – Borobudur, Amanjiwa, Arangbali (2004), Kota Sunyi (2007), Nafsu (2010), and in Singapore — Paintings Drawings and Prints 1991-2007 (2007), Bones & Sinews (2011), Being (2009), Primordial Dream (2005) and Distant Gamelan. His Kuala Lumpur solos include Kota Sepi (VWFA, 2012), Icons (Richard Koh Fine Art, 2005) and Interpreter Of Desires (Taksu, 2003).

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled
    Aug. 23, 2020

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Untitled

    Est: RM60,000 - RM85,000

    A cigarette between the lips of the face with a bulbous nose adds to a sense of vacuity and a film noir theatricality. In the juxtaposition of a rose, a white horse and a man — God’s creations — against the emblematic sickle moon with a cloud in between, it’s regarding spiritual unity. A solitary white horse stands below, more like a paper-weight adornment in a Magic Realism insertion rather than a pitch at symbolism, either good or bad. Ahmad Zakii’s handling of figures was superb when his Smokers series exploded in his exhibition at Valentine Willie Fine Art, Kuala Lumpur, in 1997. But there are always the darker moods in the figures. Since Zakii graduated in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he went into advertising and became hugely successful. After Smokers, Zakii concentrated on Fine Art with solos such as Presence (1999), Bones and Sinews (2011) in the United States; Kota Sunyi (Indonesia, 2007); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Singapore Tyler Print (2007) and Baik Art (South Korea, 2013), etc.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Standing Figure 8, 2007
    Aug. 23, 2020

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Standing Figure 8, 2007

    Est: RM37,000 - RM65,000

    The Adonis form, in its bare physicality celebrating beauty and strength, is also a divine prayer. Ahmad Zakii Anwar is able to explore the meditative allure of anatomy beyond just shapes and forms with a homage to Creationism. It’s more structured and calculated, with a refinement of lines and tones, unlike in his charcoal works which thrive on raffish and spontaneous strokes of stark monochromes. It’s often couched in darkened background to bring out the figure as well as to add a dash of mystique. This work was shown in Disclosure, Zakii’s midcareer survey exhibition at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008. Ahmad Zakii’s handling of figures was superb when his Smokers series exploded in his exhibition at Valentine Willie Fine Art, Kuala Lumpur, in 1997. But there is always the darker moods in the figures. Since Zakii graduated in Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, he went into advertising and became hugely successful. After Smokers, Zakii concentrated on Fine Art with solos such as Presence (1999), Bones and Sinews (2011) in the United States; Kota Sunyi (Indonesia, 2007); Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001); Singapore Tyler Print (2007) and Baik Art (South Korea, 2013), etc.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Red Legong, 2004
    Mar. 15, 2020

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Red Legong, 2004

    Est: RM80,000 - RM140,000

    The Legong dance is one of the most mesmeric of the Balinese repertoire with the ting-tong refrain of the gamelan. The grace and poise, even seductive allure, with controlled movements of the eyes, neck, fingers, torsos and hips are a great delight. It is reminiscent of the Sanghyang, and traditionally performed by specially selected and trained pre-pubescent women clad tightly in sarong and chest cloth, with gilded red or blue lines, and with a striking headdress with red tassle blobs to boot. These dancers were coveted for ideal spouses in Bali among the higher hierarchy, and even the passing Caucasian expatriates. Nowadays, older women are even used to dance for tourists. Drawn from the Malat heroic romance folklores, the Legong keraton and Legong Lasem are among the more popular of the some 15 types. A high water mark was set by Ahmad Zakii Anwar in his midcareer survey exhibition Disclosure at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur, in 2008, which encapsulates his world-view in still-lifes, animals, traditional dances and the dark side of urban life. After quitting a lucrative advertising career, he made a huge impact with his Smokers Series in Kuala Lumpur in 1997. He graduated from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977. His solos abroad included Presence (1999) and Bones and Sinews (2011) in the United States, Kota Sunyi (Indonesia, 2007), Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001) and Baik Art (South Korea, 2013), apart from his Singapore Tyler Print stint in 2007. His auction record, of HK$427,500 (US$54,000), was set at the Christie’s Hong Kong Nov 2007 auction.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Pendet, Peliatan; Legong, Peliatan, 2009
    Mar. 15, 2020

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Pendet, Peliatan; Legong, Peliatan, 2009

    Est: RM6,000 - RM10,000

    Illustrated here are studies of Balinese Pendet and Legong dancers swiftly and precisely captured by Ahmad Zakii Anwar. The difference between Pendet and Legong dance is that Pendet is regarded as a welcome dance whereas Legong is a classical dance that used to be a royal entertainment. Traditional Balinese dancers learn the craft as children from their mothers as soon as they are born, in the womb they are played the Balinese music and are taught to dance with their hands before they can walk. Executed in refined strokes, the artist succeeds in capturing the alluring dances of Bali. A graduate of Graphic Design from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977, Ahmad Zakii Anwar left his successful advertising career in pursuit of becoming a full-time artist. He came to attention with his virtuosity and command of a spectrum of media from charcoals to oils, building a reputation for stunning photorealistic still-life paintings and expressive portraits making him a master of Urban Realism. His career milestones were noted in 2007 when he joined the premier ranks in the artist’s workshop project at the Singapore Tyler Print Institute and a mid-career survey exhibition Disclosure held at Galeri Petronas, KualaLumpur in 2008. He has had a number of notable exhibitions abroad such as Bones And Sinews, Andrewshire Gallery (USA,2011), Kota Sunyi, C.P. Art Space (Indonesia, 2007), Shadowland, Plum Blossoms Gallery (Hong Kong, 2001) and Presence, Barbara Greene Fine Art (USA, 1999). He participated in an artist residency program hosted by Baik Art in Jeju Island, Korea in October 2013. Stoned In Paris, a joint-exhibition featuring the lithographic prints of Ahmad Zakii Anwar and Jalaini Abu Hassan was organised by Fumanart in Cult Gallery in 2018.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
  • Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Triplicity, 1999
    Mar. 15, 2020

    Ahmad Zakii Anwar (b. Johor, 1955) Triplicity, 1999

    Est: RM40,000 - RM70,000

    The well-endowed physique, Male or Female, is both a celebration and a denigration. The well-toned musculature in the right places could only be had with a disciplined regime of right exercises, but to others conservative and unexposed and ignorant, it is an object of opprobrium. It is interesting to see such Adonis measure of beauty is something admired and feared, celebrated and vilified. Film-maker U-Wei Bin Saari was right when he revealed that Ahmad Zakii Anwar’s figure types are imbued with a theatricality in the silent poses. The anatomy is revealing of the characteristics that aid certain physical movement and action. Arrayed in three dramatic poses — front, back and sideways in the centre — there is a certain Godlike quality about it. Ahmad Zakii Anwar’s mid-career survey exhibition, Disclosure, at Galeri Petronas in 2008, is one of the most compelling, encapsulating a world-view and career told in still-life, animals, traditional dances and the dark side of urban life. After quitting a lucrative advertising career, he made a huge impact with his Smokers Series in Kuala Lumpur in 1997. He graduated from the Mara Institute of Technology in 1977. His solos abroad included Presence (1999) and Bones And Sinews (2011) in the United States, Kota Sunyi (Indonesia, 2007), Shadowland (Hong Kong, 2001) and Baik Art (South Korea, 2013), apart from his Singapore Tyler Print stint in 2007.

    Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
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