LOT 34
CHUAH SIEW TENG & YONG KHENG WAH
B. Penang, 1944 / B. Penang, 1943 – 2017
Untitled (Portrait of A Woman) & Penang Village, 1970’s
Batik
60 x 155 cm & 57 x 107 cm (set of 2 artworks)
Private Collection, Canada
Signed “S.Teng” on lower left / Signed “Kheng Wah” on lower right
RM 2,500 – 3,500
A pioneer of Malaysian batik art, Chuah Siew Teng is celebrated for transforming the traditional medium into a sophisticated form of modern artistic expression. His works are distinguished by their poetic sensibility, graceful figures, and subtle interplay of colour and texture.
Portrait of a Woman depicts a contemplative female figure rendered in soft shades of blue, grey, and cream. Resting her head gently upon her hand, the subject exudes a sense of serenity and introspection. The translucent layers and delicate crackle effects characteristic of batik create an ethereal atmosphere, enhancing the painting’s emotional depth.
Elegant and understated, this work exemplifies Chuah’s mastery in capturing both the physical presence and inner spirit of his subjects, making it a compelling example of his enduring artistic legacy This charming batik composition by Yong Kheng Wah captures the tranquil beauty of a traditional waterside village. Stilt houses rise above the water while sampans rest peacefully along the shoreline, evoking a way of life closely connected to Malaysia’s coastal heritage.