Lot 25 | Auction XXXVII

 

 

LOT 25

CHOO KENG KWANG

B. Singapore, 1931

Cockatoos, 1983

Signed and dated “K.Kwang 83” on lower right

Oil on board

60 x 89.5 cm

Provenance Private Collection, USA

RM 25,000 – RM 40,000

 

Choo Keng Kwang was the only son of a Teochew diamond trader. He was heavily criticised for his decision to enroll in art classes but it paid off, as he graduated with two certificates, one from Catholic High School and one from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. Choo Keng Kwang’s subjects of birds from the early 80’s is extremely rare and very much sought after.

Bathed in tranquil colours, this work amplifies the beautiful harmony in nature. Depicted here are uncommonly-sighted birds, the cockatoos. This idyllic painting depicts exotic winter birds – with one perched inquisitively on a branch, while another flapping its wings.