Lot 633: WU DAYU

WU DAYU 1903-1988 RHYMES OF BEIJING OPERA NO. 52 oil on canvas, mounted on board 52.6 by 37.6 cm.; 20 5/8 by 14 7/8 in.

Taipei, National Museum of History, Exhibition of Wu Dayu's Paintings, March-April, 2001

Exhibition of Wu Dayu's Paintings, Taipei, 2001, National Museum of History, p.106
The Master of China's New Painting, Taipei, 1996, Lin and Keng Gallery Publication, p.126

Private Asian Collection

Wu Dayu's contribution to the development of abstract painting in China is remarkable. During his tenure as Head of the Western Art Department at the Hangzhou Academy of Art, he promoted a new and inspirational style of teaching, alongside his colleague Lin Fengmian. He emphasized the importance of individual personal expression through the use of brilliant colour and semi-figurative, abstract painting styles, inspiring countless followers. Of the limited number of paintings by Wu Dayu that have survived, the Colour Rhymes Series and Rhymes of Beijing Opera Series are the most important of Wu's oeuvre. Rhymes of Beijing Opera No.25 (Lot 633) is a classic work from the latter series. In this piece, Wu's brushstrokes are powerful and filled with feeling. His agile and free use of his favoured Prussian blue, yellow and black colours is brought to life with the subtle incorporation of a red-brown colour, providing the finishing touch to this masterpiece. Through the flowing cadence of this painting, the artist has successfully conveyed the lively character and movement of Beijing Opera figures. Wu has achieved Zheng Banqiao's artistic vision: "Paint with all your spirit, then even that without form will hold emotion". This painting was included in the Exhibition of Wu Dayu's Paintings at the National Museum of History in Taipei in 2001 and its presence on the market provides a rare opportunity for collectors of Wu Dayu's work.