Sculpture

1962

Length:13.8 x Width:15.6 x Height:56.2 (cm)

Chang Hsi-Ching (1909-2000, Nantou) was graduated from Taichung Normal School (now National Taichung University of Education). He taught at Taichung Public School, the affiliated elementary school of Taichung Normal, and Taichung Normal School itself, nurturing generations of students. A pioneer of central Taiwan’s art scene, Chang was skilled in watercolor, pastel, calligraphy, and sculpture. His works were recognized by the Taichung Prefecture Art Exhibition, the Taiwan Provincial Art Exhibition, and the Provincial Teachers’ Art Exhibition. He also co-founded influential artist groups such as the Central Taiwan Fine Arts Association and the Southeast Fine Arts Association.
In Quiet Contemplation, a young woman stands with her head gently bowed, her expression solemn and introspective. Her hands are clasped behind her back, her weight resting on her left foot while the right foot lifts slightly forward. The pose conveys grace and gentleness, yet the slight pause in her movement hints at quiet uncertainty, echoing the title. The model for this sculpture was Chang Hsi-Ching’s fourth daughter, Chang Ying-Chun. After extended observation, Chang built the figure gradually, layering and shaping pieces of clay by hand. Once the clay model was complete, he created a plaster mold and cast the final work in bronze. The entire process took several months to complete, reflecting the artist’s careful attention to both form and inner mood.

Accession number:20170100021