The Lillies
Zao Wou-ki
1953
- YEAR:1953
- MEDIUM:Oil on canvas
- DIMENSIONS:80 × 59 cm
Introduction
As one of the “Three Musketeers Who Have Studied in France,” Zao Wou-Ki was inspired by Paul Klee in 1951 to reflect on his own cultural heritage. Thus he draws nourishment from Chinese calligraphy and traditional paintings, condensing figurative objects into simple yet meaningful abstract symbols. In The Lillies, he abandons traditional portrayal methods of perspective, light, shadow, and volume, using an ochre wash for the background and interweaving thin layers of light green and orange to create a hazy and profound atmosphere. The rustic vase, upright flower stems, and delicate petals are all outlined with rhythmical, calligraphic lines and subtle gradations of ink, presenting a sense of upward growth and vitality. This work marks a crucial turning point in Zao Wou-Ki’s transition from representational painting to abstract style, and it also lays an important foundation for his later move toward pure abstraction.
