Auction Name: 2025 December 11 Fine & Decorative Arts Showcase Auction

Lot Number: 28110

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/13234*28110

Attributed to Ren Bonian (Chinese, 1840-1896)
Rooster
Ink and color on paper
30-1/2 x 11-3/4 inches (77.5 x 29.8 cm) (work)
85 x 18 inches (overall)
Signed Bonian Hua, with one artist's red seal, and a collector's seal to lower left corner

Collection introduction:


Mrs. Shiu-sheung Yeh Hu (胡葉少裳夫人), born into a prominent Xiguan family in Guangzhou, was one who harbored a passion for literature and the arts since her formative years. At Guomin University she majored in education, but developed an interest later in accounting. In 1935 she wedded Mr. Ying-choi Hu (胡英才先生), who had earned the year before from Cornell University a Master's degree in civil engineering. After World War II, the couple settled in Hong Kong, where Mr. Hu co-founded the construction concern Dao Kee and Company, with Mrs. Hu bearing the responsibilities of bookkeeper and treasurer. Contract awards later took the firm to Borneo, where it completed a noted variety of public and private projects. It then returned in time for the boom in real-estate development in Hong Kong. In 1958, with partners they established Lung Hwa Lou (龍華樓), a Chinese restaurant in Mongkok.. Other commercial ventures followed.


In what spare time available, Mrs. Hu managed to nurture a hobby into a sophisticated collection of Chinese ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, and other works of art. Her husband's knowing gaze was never far behind. Lending sparkle to the endeavor of four decades was their friendship with the master calligrapher-painter Pu Ru(溥儒). Circumstances permitting, he would travel to Hong Kong in the autumn to pacify his craving for crabs imported from Shanghai. On such visits Mr. and Mrs. Hu would play host to him at their residence. Inspired by fat-heavy crabs and libations, Professor Pu on occasion created artwork on the spot in commemoration of those events. To all gathered, each was an autographed vignette resplendent with cultured jubilance. It is against that cherished backdrop that many an exquisite item find themselves featured in this auction.

Property from the Collection of Mrs. Shiu-sheung Yeh Hu

*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

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