Artwork Description

Title: Portrait
Artist: Yu Jun
Date: n.d.
Medium: Ink and watercolor on paper
Dimensions: 24.8 x 14.6 in (63 x 37 cm)

1. Artwork Identification
This compelling ink and watercolor portrait by Yu Jun features a young woman striking a flirtatious yet poised pose, rendered with exquisite sensitivity and control. The figure’s expressive gaze, dynamic posture, and the subtle play of textured fabrics all converge to create an arresting and character-rich composition. With delicate outlines and softly modulated washes, Yu Jun’s technique evokes both elegance and intimacy.

2. Artistic Style and Influences
Yu Jun’s distinctive visual style is grounded in the Chinese gongbi tradition of meticulous brushwork, while embracing contemporary figuration and a fashion-inspired aesthetic. The playfully exaggerated pose and detailed textures of the clothing suggest an awareness of Western fashion illustration, yet his treatment of line and negative space roots the piece firmly in East Asian art traditions. The composition shows kinship with modern Chinese realism while maintaining a strong individual flair.

3. Historical Context
The painting reflects broader cultural shifts in Chinese art since the late 20th century, particularly the growing focus on individuality, youth culture, and gender identity. This period saw artists like Yu Jun blending traditional techniques with cosmopolitan imagery, reflecting an era of artistic experimentation and global dialogue. The subject's confident expression and stylized wardrobe echo the emerging urban sensibility of China’s modern metropolises.

4. Provenance
Provenance documentation can be provided upon contact.

5. Condition and Conservation
The artwork is in very good condition. The paper remains clean and taut, with no visible foxing, fading, or creases. The framing is well-preserved with only minimal handling marks, suitable for immediate display in a gallery or private collection.

6. Artistic Significance
Yu Jun continues to receive recognition for his innovative approach to contemporary portraiture, particularly his nuanced and psychologically rich depictions of women. Portrait is emblematic of his broader oeuvre, balancing grace and candor with technical precision. It exemplifies his role in redefining Chinese figure painting for a new generation of collectors and connoisseurs.