Egret in Winter (or similar descriptive title)
Limited edition print (lithograph or serigraph) on paper • Signed 'Goufen Huang' (or similar phonetic Latin signature in pencil); Chinese artist working in the Lingnan School or a similar modernized traditional style.
Style & Movement
Contemporary Chinese Brush Painting / Lingnan School influence; a blend of traditional 'Bird and Flower' (huaniao-hua) painting with modern decorative aesthetics.
Medium & Technique
Ink and color on paper; likely a high-quality reproduction of a traditional brush painting utilizing lithography or screen printing techniques, including simulated wash effects.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (Circa 1970-1990)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 18 inches (image size); vertical portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A white egret stands on a rock amidst a winter landscape featuring weeping willow branches, pine needles, and white plum blossoms (meihua). The composition uses a vertical format with a misty, atmospheric background, symbolizing resilience and purity in East Asian iconography.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the paper appears flat with no visible foxing, though there is a slight reflection on the glass indicating it is framed under standard glass.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $350 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $200 USD
Provenance History
Numbered edition 88/500 in pencil. Likely purchased from a commercial gallery specializing in contemporary Asian art or through a high-end decor retailer in the late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the late 20th-century trend of producing high-quality, signed limited editions of traditional Chinese themes for the international market, showcasing the enduring appeal of 'Bird and Flower' motifs.
Notable Features
Includes a traditional red artist seal (chop) and calligraphic inscription alongside a Western-style pencil signature and edition number (88/500), bridging Eastern and Western art market conventions.
Condition Issues
Possible minor fading of the colors due to light exposure; slight acid burn potential from the non-archival matting visible in the frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the artwork is kept away from direct sunlight; consider reframing with acid-free mats and UV-protective glazing to prevent further discoloration.