Gianguan Auctions is pleased to announce a new specialty within its paintings category.  In addition to works by ancient masters and 20th century modernists, the gallery will now regularly offer the works of early 21st century avant garde Chinese artists working in the traditional format.

This move reflects the strength of the market in China for paintings by established contemporary artists.  Gianguan’s September 9th auction in New York City features seven works by Zhang Xiujen, Chen Hong, He Shuanping, Hong Mingze, Li Zhitian,and  Lu Hanging. 

While the names may be unfamiliar to Western art collectors, they are notable among Chinese collectors. Gianguan Auctions is the first independent auction house to make a commitment to presenting the category as an integral part of their platform.

Zhang Xiujin, b. 1951, is represented by a vibrant hanging scroll entitled “Lotus” (2016)  that pushes the boundaries of classic imagery. Admiring “Lotus” (2016), one can see other paintings implied within the overall context. The muddy, weedy ground from which rise a turquoise mist and brilliantly colored flowers straining against their hard-edged outlines is the sort of visual poetry one expects from Zhang Xiujin. She has been awarded many honors including “Chinese Charity Artist” by the China Charity Federation.

Li Zhitian (b. 1959) plants viewers firmly in the present with “Fall Harvest,” a painting that captures the globalization of cultures. Centered in a field of golden flowers, a  young woman wearing sunglasses surveys the surroundings, presumably looking for the best angle on which to train her  camera. Inscribed and signed Zhitian, with two artist seals.

Chen Hong (b. 1971)  offers “Moon Over Mountaintop,” a landscape alive with color blocks and rough brush strokes suggesting the stamina of inhabitants and wildlife. The 27” long ink-on-paper is signed with one artist seal. 

He Shuanping (b. 1964) provides a deft interpretation of “Wisteria and Birds” (2019).  Though shades of black and gray predominate, the trusses of flowers cascade in hues of purple with conspicuous yellow spots. 

“Herons in Lotus Pond” (2013), another work by Cheng Hong, infuses a favored theme with the raw energy of vibrant brush strokes. Here two large white cranes stand on rockery amidst a storm or emerging blossoms.  

From the brush of Hong Mingze (b. 1943),  comes a painting of sophisticated detail entitled “Landscape.” Four mountains tower above the cut of a river as trees, bushes, outcroppings and a mid-channel island come to life under brush strokes reminiscent of court painters. Signed Hong Mingze with two artist seals. 

“Mt Xishan Spring,” by Lu Huagang (b. 1974) overpaints splashes of turquoise, coral and yellow on a bleak background  to fulfill the promise of a spring morning. Inscribed and signed Huagang, with one artist seal. 

The paintings will be included in Gianguan Auctions sale of Chinese paintings, ceramics, bronzes and works of art on  Monday, September 9. The sale begins at 6 pm EDT. It is preceded by a week of live viewing beginning on September 2nd and running through 5 pm on September 9th.  Inquiries are being accepted at 212 867-7288 and 212 867-9388. Email: info@gianguanauctions.com. The auction will also be carried on invaluable.com and liveauctioneers.com. The catalog is available at www.gianguanauctions.com.