In China and Japan in particular there has been a long tradition of collecting scroll paintings, calligraphy, and other scholarly works. However, a relatively new area of focus for the Asian art market has been modern and contemporary Asian paintings. There has been a notable upsurge in interest across the past decade with work by 20th century Chinese masters gaining increasing traction.  There is also a renewed appreciation of the work of the Vietnamese artists who attended the Fine Arts College of Indochina and the artistic output of post-war Japan.

Sworders have gained a good foothold in this fast growing market. While we continue to achieve strong prices for traditional works, such as a silk hanging scroll painted with a horse and a groom in the style of the Yuan dynasty scholar Zhao Mengfu (sold for £12,350 in November 2021), recent sales have included a series of five-figure results for works by or attributed to 20th century names.

In May 2021 an ink and colour on silk mountainous landscape carrying the signature and seal of Zhang Daqian sold at £20,800, while in November 2021 an ink on paper calligraphy, with a dedication and signature of Wu Changshuo sold for £26,000.

To find out more about our forthcoming sales or talk further about potential consignments, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of our specialist team.

Results & Highlights