LOT 25
YUSOF GHANI
B. Johor, 1950
Biring XIV, 2006
Signed “Yusof Ghani” on lower right
Signed, titled and dated on the verso
Oil on canvas
122 x 90 cm
Private Collection, Kuala Lumpur
Illustrated on page 85 of “Biring by Yusof Ghani – A Malaysian Master” coffee table book published in 2007 in conjunction with the Biring exhibition
RM 80,000 – RM 150,000
Yusof Ghani’s ‘Biring’ series strays away from his other series that feature the human form, masks and nature. His most coveted works are from the rare, ‘Protest’ series while the artists’ most recognised and collected artworks are part of the ‘Tari’ series. The ‘Biring’ series is the artist’s rendition of a cock-fight, symbolising the heroism and strife between mankind. The use of vibrant hues and expressive brush strokes makes it an inundating artwork. Through dominant colours of blue, black and white paired with Yusof’s innate prowess, he creates swirls of colours that finally take the form of roosters at the centre of the artwork. The roosters depicted in his painting seem to be in motion, glowing wings flapping about as they fight for their lives. Biring’ is definitely one of Yusof Ghani’s most enlightened body of works, for not only have the works been painted with wild abandon and freedom, but more importantly demonstrate the artist’s ability to leave the comfort of the familiar.