Chen Zhe(1937-)

Oil Painting

2008

Length:60.5 x Width:72.5 (cm)

Two puppets dressed in elaborate costumes are the focus of this painting. The puppet on the right has its hand extended outward and the puppet on the left is posed as if to block the attack. These are common combat poses in traditional puppet theater. However, the style of the costumes has moved away from the traditional, expanding the space for imagination. There is abundant variation in colors that is ingenious without being excessive.
Chen once said that oil painting is his greatest love. His paintings can be likened to a journal of his emotions. Puppets was completed by this artist at the age of 71. The forms and colors in this painting are strong, indicating the still exuberant spirit of this artist at more than 70 years of age.

Accession number:A0227