Artwork Description

Title:“Chao · Saint” Series IV

Artist:
Wei Tian

Date:
Undated

Medium:
Woodcut

Dimensions:
45 × 60 cm (17.7 × 23.6 in)

1. Artwork Identification
Wei Tian’s “Chao · Saint” Series IV is a monochromatic woodcut print measuring 45 × 60 cm. The composition features a dynamic arrangement of multiple human figures rendered in bold, contrasting tones, highlighting the tactile qualities of relief printmaking. The use of strong linear patterns and chiaroscuro effects underscores a dramatic visual narrative, characteristic of the artist’s approach to social and philosophical themes.

2. Artistic Style and Influences
The work reflects contemporary Chinese printmaking aesthetics, rooted in the historical New Woodcut Movement yet adapted for modern narratives. The linear vigor and stark tonal contrasts recall early 20th-century Expressionism and German woodcut traditions, while its complex human drama resonates with themes of morality, chaos, and transcendence, aligning with the conceptual scope implied by the series Title: “Chao · Saint.”

3. Historical Context
Woodcut printing has a significant legacy in Chinese art history, revived during the 1930s as a socially engaged Medium: under the advocacy of Lu Xun. In the contemporary period, artists like Wei Tian have expanded this language to explore existential and metaphysical concerns. The “Chao · Saint” series examines the tension between disorder (chao) and sanctity (sheng), reflecting a philosophical inquiry into the dualities of human existence in a rapidly transforming society.

4. Provenance and Authenticity
Please contact the gallery directly for detailed provenance information and authenticity certification.

5. Condition and Conservation
The print appears to be in very good condition, with sharp impression quality and strong ink saturation. No signs of paper warping, foxing, or tears are observed. Edges remain stable, and the surface is free from abrasion, indicating proper storage and handling.

6. Artistic Significance
“Chao · Saint” Series IV is an important work within Wei Tian’s practice, demonstrating his mastery of woodcut techniques and engagement with contemporary philosophical discourse. The print’s stark contrasts and layered figural arrangement serve as a metaphorical stage for exploring moral ambiguity and human resilience, situating the piece as a critical contribution to modern Chinese printmaking.