Percentage of Lots Sold: 100%. Value Increase of Lots Sold: 2,096.33%
On the afternoon of June 2, 2015, a total of 49 lots (47 fans and 2 paintings) were sold at the Ravenel Spring Auction 2015 Hong Kong “Fan Paintings and Calligraphy From Hwang Tien-tsai's Collection”, demonstrating a particularly successful and exciting white glove sale. The highly sought-after piece “Painting and Calligraphy” by Lin Yushan, Zheng Shanxi, Ou Haonian, Li Qimao, Tu Canlin, Guo Dawei, and Lee Yih-Hong realized an impressive HK$456,000. In addition, the highest valued lot, “Lychee and Birds” by Yu Zhonglin, was sold for an eye-catching HK$720,000, setting a new auction record for the artist.
Known as a respected fan collector across the Strait, Hwang Tien-tsai established many intimate friendships with numerous calligraphers and painters who immigrated across the Strait to Taiwan, including Zhang Daqian and Huang Junbi. Among the treasured fans up for auction was none other than a “Zhong Kui Fan” given by Huang Junbi in celebration of Huang’s 60th birthday. The only “Zhong Qui” painting by Huang attracted especially competitive bids at the auction house, over the phone, and via the Internet before being eventually sold for HK$240,000, a remarkable cost-performance ratio. Another fan painted by Pu Ru realized HK$216,000 after a series of 20 aggressive bids.
The auction encompassed two themes: “Zhong Kui Fan” and “Calligraphers and Painters Crossing the Strait to Taiwan in 1949.” Lot 001 and 002 by Tai Jingnong brought competitive bidding and heated up the atmosphere at the beginning, resulting in sales of HK$264,000 and HK$144,000, respectively. Works by contemporary Taiwanese artists such as Lin Yushan, Lee Yih-hong, Zheng Shanxi, and Chen Yongmo were also highly acclaimed. Many lots from these artists generated bids of over ten thousand HK dollars.
As Lorries Chang, CEO of Ravenel Group, explains, “This special auction attracted collectors from around the world. The highly competitive bids generated a particularly lively atmosphere, and the lots were universally praised and acclaimed. While the current atmosphere in the auction market is relatively rational and cautious, the results of this latest auction set a new record with valuations well beyond estimates. Lychee and Birds by Yu Zhonglin, for example, was sold for HK$720,000, setting a new personal auction record for the artist. The remarkable results underscore the exceptional quality of the artwork and collectors’ continued pursuit for original work of the highest caliber.”