Lot 25: Li Chen (B. 1963) Avalokiteśvara

Li Chen (B. 1963)
Avalokiteśvara
1999

incised with the artist's signature in Chinese and English and numbered 5/30 on the reverse
bronze

49 x 23 x 41 cm (19 5/16 x 9 1/16 x 16 1/8 in)

This work is number 5 from an edition of 30 and is accompanied with a Certificate of Authenticity issued by Asia Art Center, Taipei.
For further information on this lot please visit the website

Provenance
Asia Art Center, TaiwanAcquired from the above by the present owner
李真
大士銅雕1999年作
簽名雕刻：李真 Li Chen（背面）版數：5/30
附亞洲藝術中心開立之原作保證書
來源
台灣亞洲藝術中心現藏家得自上述來源
Li Chen's sculptural language is deeply rooted in his profound connection with the Buddhist and Taoist traditions. Titled Avalokiteśvara, the present work sublimely exemplifies the Taiwanese artist's ongoing dialogue with the spiritual based on the very existence of material nature. Avalokiteśvara is the most widely revered bodhisattva in the Buddhist pantheon and is identified specifically as the embodiment of compassion. Created in 1999, the rotund sculpture exudes an unperturbed demeanour of benevolence. Beneath its subtle smile and serenely closed eyes, a sense of harmony and soundness is present with a touch of noble modesty. At the same time, Li infuses contemporary perception into his artistic practice, as shown in his unique style that dexterously incorporates both oriental charisma and western geometric aesthetics.
As one of the artist's signature bronze sculptures that are known for being heavy but appear light, the present work is polished with traditional black lacquer that evokes a delusive impression of weightlessness. The seemingly simplistic black surface alters with the change of shade and this creative interplay between weight and lightness emanates metaphysical voidness from within material fullness. Holding a purification vase in the left hand while doing the posture of 'mudra of teaching' on the right, the plumpish figure with fully extended arms is charged with an implacable surge of strength and energy. Slightly tilted forward as a gesture to gaze down upon all beings, the sculpture emblematizes the notion of universal salvation and exhibits a transcendent spirituality. As viewers calmly observe and meditate upon the work, they are invited to a harmonious paradise of spiritual tranquillity and philosophical freedom.
台灣藝術家李真的雕塑語言植根於他與佛教和道教傳統的深厚淵源。此作名為《大士》，充分體現了藝術家基於物質本性為立足點，從而與精神靈性所展開的持續對話。「大士」一詞始於佛教，特指備受尊崇的觀世音菩薩，被認定為慈悲的化身。此雕塑作於1999年，渾圓敦厚之姿散發出靜謐安詳的神韻。《大士》雙目輕閉，神態自若，豁然逍遙的微笑下透露出一絲和諧穩健的高尚情操。李真同時將現代感性融入到他的藝術實踐... For further information on this lot please visit the Bonhams website