Artwork Description

Title:Bearer No. 1
Artist: Zhenfei Liu
Date: Undated
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 44.9 x 57.5 in (114 x 146 cm)

Artwork Identification
Bearer No. 1 by Zhenfei Liu is a captivating surrealist oil painting measuring 114 by 146 centimeters. The composition centers on a tree with prominently exposed roots emerging from an oversized bowl or planter, rendered predominantly in delicate shades of pink and purple. Ethereal butterflies flutter around the scene, enhancing the dreamlike ambiance. Liu’s refined technique combines meticulous detail with an otherworldly color palette, inviting contemplation of growth and transformation.

Artistic Style and Influences
This work firmly situates itself within the surrealist tradition, evoking the imaginative landscapes of artists such as Remedios Varo and Leonora Carrington, where natural forms are reimagined in fantastical contexts. Liu’s use of a limited, harmonious color scheme reinforces the painting’s poetic and introspective mood, while the surreal juxtaposition of organic elements with human-made vessels aligns with contemporary explorations of nature and symbolism.

Historical Context
While undated, Bearer No. 1 reflects contemporary dialogues in surrealism and symbolism prevalent in the early 21st century. The work engages themes of life cycles, rootedness, and fragility amid changing environments—concepts increasingly relevant amid global ecological concerns and philosophical inquiries into humanity’s relationship with nature. Liu’s painting thereby contributes to ongoing conversations about resilience and metamorphosis in a rapidly evolving world.

Provenance and Authenticity
For detailed provenance and authenticity documentation, please contact the gallery directly.

Condition and Conservation
The painting is in excellent condition with no visible wear or restoration. The oil paint surface remains vibrant, and the canvas is well-preserved without distortion. Routine conservation is recommended to maintain its pristine quality.

Artistic Significance
Bearer No. 1 exemplifies Zhenfei Liu’s mastery of surreal visual storytelling and color harmony. The painting holds an important place within Liu’s oeuvre, illustrating a sophisticated interplay between natural symbolism and dreamlike imagery. Its ethereal quality and thematic depth make it a valuable acquisition for collectors and institutions focused on contemporary surrealist art.