Lot description
A work of Chinese calligraphy attributed to Kang Youwei (1858-1927). Ink on paper, handscroll. Image: 49 x 702 cm. Note: With a frontispiece bearing the name Yang Qianli. Provenance: By repute, from the collection of Chen Jiandun. Chen Jiandun, also known as the Master of Jian Pavilion, 1916-2008, was a native of Tong'an, Fujian, who later made his life in Southeast Asia. He was a noted overseas Chinese community leader, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and collector. He served as vice chairman of the Singapore Tong Ann District Guild for its 18th, 19th, and 20th terms, and later as honorary chairman from the 25th term onward. From the 1970s, Chen traveled frequently between Southeast Asia and mainland China, where he was active in investment and philanthropy and became acquainted with modern Chinese artists including Wang Xuetao and Huang Zhou. His collection was said to include works associated with Qi Baishi, Xu Beihong, Dong Shouping, and others.