Zao Wou-Ki

1978 Original lithograph by Zao Wou-Ki Elégie pour Jean-Mari no. 2

1978

Original lithograph Zao Wou-Ki (1920 - 2013) was a French-Chinese painter. He was a member of the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Zao Wou-Ki graduated from the China Academy of Ar...

The 1981 original illustrated book titled "Beauregard" represents a remarkable collaboration between two artistic giants: Zao Wou-Ki, the renowned Chinese-French painter and printmaker, and Philippe Jaccottet, the celebrated Swiss poet. This limited edition work is numbered 105 out of 120 on vélin d’Arches paper and is notable for its blend of literary and visual artistry. Zao Wou-Ki: The Artist Zao Wou-Ki (1920–2013) was a master of lyrical abstraction, combining Eastern calligraphic traditions with Western modernist movements. His work often evokes a sense of fluidity and balance between abstract landscapes and inner emotional states. By the time of this collaboration, Zao Wou-Ki had already established himself as a leading figure in the international art world, particularly known for his prints and engravings, which brought his dynamic style to the intimate scale of the book. In "Beauregard", Zao Wou-Ki contributed five gravures, showcasing his expertise in etching and aquatint techniques. These illustrations are not mere visual accompaniments to the text; they are integral to the book’s atmosphere, echoing the lyrical and reflective tone of Jaccottet’s poetry. The frontispiece of the book, which is signed by the artist, is particularly significant, as it captures the essence of Zao Wou-Ki’s abstract landscape motifs—inviting the reader to enter a meditative space where visual and poetic imagery merge. Philippe Jaccottet: The Poet Philippe Jaccottet (1925–2021) is revered for his quiet yet profound explorations of nature, existence, and the passage of time. His poetry often reflects a deep connection to the natural world, where landscape and language intertwine to evoke a sense of mystery and transcendence. Jaccottet’s work is known for its subtlety, clarity, and philosophical depth, qualities that make it an ideal complement to Zao Wou-Ki’s art. "Beauregard" is a poetic reflection, likely inspired by Jaccottet’s experiences and contemplations in nature, resonating with the themes of beauty, perception, and the fleeting moments of life. The collaboration with Zao Wou-Ki enhances the reader’s experience, as the abstract gravures create an emotional and visual resonance with the poetry, leading to a rich, multi-sensory engagement with the text. Production and Printing This finely crafted edition was printed with meticulous attention to detail. The typography was handled by Robert Blanchet, a noted French typographer, ensuring that the text’s presentation matched the elegance of Jaccottet’s poetry and Zao Wou-Ki’s artwork. The gravures were printed by the esteemed Lacourière et Frélaut workshop, renowned for its work with prominent artists of the 20th century. The atelier’s mastery in printing delicate and complex etchings allowed Zao Wou-Ki’s artwork to come alive on the page, preserving the depth and texture of his original plates. Rarity and Collectibility This edition of "Beauregard" is extremely rare, with only 120 copies printed on vélin d’Arches paper, a high-quality, smooth paper often used for fine art prints and luxury books...

Zao Wou-ki - Original Lithograph 1962 From La tentation de l’Occident Dimensions: 39 x 28.5 cm Publisher: Les Bibliophiles Comtois Edition of 170 Reference: Jørgen Ågerup 137 - 146...

Zao Wou-Ki (1920 - 2013) Hommage a Nobutaka Shikanai - 1991, (Agerup 354) Color lithograph on BFK Rives watermarked paper, full margins 24 x 18 1/4 inches Signed and titled in the sheet Published by Fuji Television Gallery, Tokyo Zao (Zhao) Wou Ki combines Oriental landscape abstraction with French influence. He was born in Beijing on February 13, 1921, and from the age of ten, Zao drew and painted with great freedom. He learned from his grandfather that calligraphy is an art when it transmits an emotion to the person looking at it. At age fourteen he enrolled at the School of Fine Arts in Hangzhou, where he remained for six years. He studied and then taught at the Hongchow National Academy of Fine Arts. In 1942, he organized an exhibition of works by his teacher, Wu Dayu, along with some of his own. In 1948, he moved to Paris where he has lived and worked ever since, although he has exhibited in New York City. He attended the Académie de la Grande Chaumière and lived at Rue du Moulin Vert nearby Alberto Giacometti's studio. Making the acquaintance of Hans Hartung, Nicolas de Staël, Pierre Soulages, Viera da Silva...