Zao Wou-Ki: Tribute to Nobutaka Shikanai

Lithograph, 1991

Edition of 2757 + 30 EA

Publisher: Fuji Television Gallery (Tokyo)

Printer: Art Estampe (Paris)

Catalogue raisonné: Agerup 354

75.00 cm × 56.50 cm (sheet size)

61.00 cm × 45.50 cm (image size)

Signed in pencil

Certificate of authenticity included

Condition: Excellent

BFK Rives paper

This work is held by our partner gallery in France. While the condition is considered good by local (French) standards, it's important to note that standards for assessing the condition of vintage items may differ between France and Japan. Please consider purchasing only after acknowledging any signs of age and use typical of vintage items (stains, discoloration, folds, wrinkles, tanning, etc.). We have not inspected the physical item ourselves. The work is currently stored in France, and delivery after ordering will take more than two weeks. Due to the nature of the work, returns after purchase are not accepted.

Work Description

"Tribute to Nobutaka Shikanai" is a lithograph created by Zao Wou-Ki as a homage to Nobutaka Shikanai, who played a significant role in promoting Japanese art and culture.

This work contains no specific human figures or landscape depictions.

However, the canvas poetically expresses intangible "presences" and "memories" through gently spreading light, deeply layered colors, and brushstrokes that traverse space.

Throughout his life, Zao Wou-Ki sought to depict the essence of nature and space.

His work is not merely abstract,

but also an attempt to visualize intangible elements such as

light
breath
time
silence

In this piece, layers of softly spreading colors and powerful black lines maintain a delicate balance, imbuing a deep energy within the stillness.

It conveys not a direct expression of mourning or commemoration, but rather a spiritual resonance.

The entire composition resembles an inner landscape, existing as a space that changes infinitely according to the viewer's perception.

Furthermore, this work was created for Fuji Television Gallery in Tokyo, suggesting a deep cultural connection between Japan and Zao Wou-Ki.

Born in China and matured in France, his art continued to resonate strongly with Asian cultures, including Japan.

Zao Wou-Ki's world, which fused the Eastern sense of empty space with the dynamism of Western abstract painting, also imbues this work with high spirituality and quiet poetic sentiment.

"Tribute to Nobutaka Shikanai" goes beyond being a mere "dedicatory work,"

It is one of the excellent lithographs that represent Zao Wou-Ki's mature period, beautifully expressing

the poetics of memory and space

Title Explanation

Tribute to Nobutaka Shikanai

= "Homage to Nobutaka Shikanai"

In art, "Tribute to ~" carries nuances beyond a simple dedication, including:

• Respect
• Spiritual resonance
• Cultural reverence
• Remembrance