Artwork Description

Title: A Certain Day
Artist: Long He · Guangri Jin
Date: 2015
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 140 × 87 cm (approximately 55.12 × 34.25 in)

1. Artwork Identification
A Certain Day is a narrative oil painting jointly created by Long He and Guangri Jin, measuring 140 × 87 cm. The composition presents a serene interior scene: a sunlit table bearing a solitary fish—perhaps freshly prepared for lunch—sits in quiet dialogue with a wide-open window that frames a tranquil view of the beach and sea beyond. The interplay between still life and landscape imbues the canvas with a reflective, lived-in atmosphere, suggesting a fleeting yet intimate moment suspended in time.

2. Artistic Style and Influences
The artists employ a naturalistic yet stylized approach that bridges figuration with subtle surrealism. The clarity of the brushwork and the soft rendering of light evoke the quiet poetics of daily life, reminiscent of Giorgio Morandi’s intimate still lifes or Edward Hopper’s quiet interiors, while the beach view adds a cinematic openness. The precise yet restrained palette enhances the work’s contemplative tone, emphasizing mood over narrative.

3. Historical Context
Within the context of contemporary Chinese figurative painting, A Certain Day represents a contemplative turn toward personal memory and domestic quietude. Rather than focusing on grand historical themes or overt social commentary, the artists turn inward, capturing universal moments of solitude and ritual. This genre of introspective realism has gained traction in China’s post-2000 art scene, often reflecting an appreciation for slowness, space, and poetic realism.

4. Provenance and Authenticity
Provenance documentation can be provided upon contact.

5. Condition and Conservation
A Certain Day is in excellent condition. The oil surface is stable, with no signs of abrasion, cracking, or restoration. It is recommended that the piece be framed and displayed away from direct sunlight, under museum-standard lighting, to preserve its tonal subtlety and surface integrity.

Summary
Quiet, lyrical, and imbued with everyday meaning, A Certain Day is a compelling study in light, mood, and domestic space. Its carefully balanced composition and nuanced execution make it a thoughtful addition to any collection focused on contemporary Chinese realism or contemplative interior narratives.