Lot 111: Chinese Triptych Silk Painting & Original Ink Drawing, 1971

Description

1) A THREE-PANEL CHINESE SILK PAINTING TRIPTYCH OF CRANES AND PINES. Signed Zhongyu (中玉) and Cuiyu (翠玉)Late Qing Dynasty to Republic Period, early to mid-20th Century. Key Details: Finely executed in the traditional Gongbi (meticulous) style using mineral pigments and ink on silk. The triptych depicts an auspicious gathering of red-crowned cranes (Grus japonensis) amongst twisted pine boughs (matsu) and early-blossoming plum flora. - Left Panel: Depicts a pair of cranes dynamically leaning downward over a gnarled pine branch, signed Cuiyu (翠玉) with one red artist's seal. - Center Panel: Features a paired composition of a standing and preening crane against a prominent pine trunk, signed Zhongyu (中玉) with one red square seal reading Zhongyu Zhi Yin (中玉之印). - Right Panel: Captures a calling crane looking upward into a cascading canopy, signed Cuiyu (翠玉) with one red artist's seal. The cranes are rendered with exceptional precision, showing fine hair-line linework built up with layers of opaque white pigment to simulate the soft textures of the plumage. Set against a warm, naturally aged silk ground. 2) A striking black and white ink drawing by S.J. Pettit, dated August 1971, capturing a detailed street scene on Church Street, Windsor. The artwork features historic architecture, including "The Knight Inn" established in A.D. 1525, and another building with a "Double Diamond" sign, rendered with fine lines and strong contrasts. Key Details: * Origin/Era: British, Mid-20th Century (1971) * Material: Ink on paper, framed under glass * Style: Architectural Illustration, Urban Landscape * Artist: S.J. Pettit Condition: The artwork itself appears to be in good condition. The mat board surrounding the drawing exhibits significant water staining, discoloration, and mold/mildew spots, particularly in the upper corners. The black frame shows minor superficial wear consistent with age. Interesting fact: * Church Street in Windsor is a historic cobbled street renowned for its Georgian buildings and close proximity to Windsor Castle, making it a popular subject for artists. * Ink drawings, particularly architectural studies, were a common artistic practice in the mid-20th century, often used for detailed representations before the widespread adoption of photographic techniques in architecture. Use: This framed drawing would appeal to collectors of local historical art, particularly those with an interest in Windsor's heritage, despite the condition issues of the matting.

Condition Report

Significant water staining, discoloration, and mold/mildew spots on the mat board, especially in the upper corners. Minor superficial wear to the frame.

Specifications