Lot 41
Taichi Shadow Boxing (Pair)
JU Ming (Taiwanese, 1938 - 2023)
1994
Bronze, edition no. 10/20
41(L) x 32(W) x 27(H) cm (Left)
32(L) x 42(W) x 25(H) cm (Right)
Estimate
TWD 1,200,000-2,200,000
USD 36,900-67,700
Sold Price
TWD 2,478,000
USD 77,353
Signature
10/20 and dated '94 (both)
+ OVERVIEW
Ju Ming's famous sculptures, the "Taichi Series" was published in the late 70's, it can be divided to single and double figures, the "Taichi Series" is the most world-famed series among his other 2 series.
Right after the "Taichi Series" is published, he traveled twice to Japan and exhibited it, Japan's Hakone Open-Air Museum even collected his out-door bronze sculpture, and built his international foundation. However his major international debut was in the Max Hutchinson Gallery in New York in the 80's, and successfully introduced Ju Ming to the world. Two pieces were sold during his first exhibition in New York; it's an achievement and a big surprise for a Chinese artist during that time. Afterwards, with his agent and galleries' promote, Ju Ming's popularity goes straight up in America, Atlanta city and Kansas State University have collected his out-door bronze sculptures.
Ju Ming's "Taichi Series" can be broadly divided into two categories: those of individuals demonstrating their skills and postures, and those that examine the contradictory relationship between counter forces. Taichi involves both activity and quietude, rigidity and fluidity, perception and reality, urgency as well as other evolving elements in dialectic philosophy. To understand the mystery within, is to fathom the wonders of the universe. Art historian Michael Sullivan has commented: "Taichi is also a form of ritual combat in which two figures actively oppose each other. In 'Taichi Boxing' the participant moves so that he (more rarely she) extends beyond himself. Know your enemy as well as yourself, wrote the ancient military strategist Sun Zi, and you will be invincible."
The 20th & 21st Century Chinese Art
Ravenel Spring Auction 2006
Sunday, June 4, 2006, 12:00am