ZHANG DAQIAN (1899-1983)

In June 1971 with the help of a friend, Zhang Daqian found a more spacious residence in the scenic Seventeen Mile Drive in Carmel, California. He named it Huanbi An or 'Hut in the sticks' in view of the lush surroundings and settled in this new domicile in August after several rounds of renovation.

Painted in August 1971, Autumn Sentiments Upon Spring Clouds exemplifies Zhang's 'splashed colour' and careful drawing techniques. The tonal changes of ink together with the splashing and staining treatment create a sense of depth amidst mountains and rocks, infusing texture to the green reeds and rivers banks. Though simple in composition, it is both intriguing and exemplary of Zhang's skill in landscape painting.