Lot Essay
Professor Silpa Bhirasri who was commonly regarded as the 'Father of Modern Thai art' has once said "It gives me pride to note that our best artists still retain the Thai essence in their works. They are able to portray the simple features in the unadulterated way of life with sincerity. If we can preserve the simplicity of ideas and feelings, we should be able to stay from the threat of having to imitate modern western art which is all confused. In future, we should always be able to maintain that Thai element, even if a new expression of feelings and understanding may be called for" (Somporn Rodboon, The Life and Works of Khien Yimsiri, Bangkok, 1994, p. 107.)
Indeed Khien was able to synthesize the modern and traditional elements in his works, best exemplified by The Musical Rhythm (fig a.) which is a composition of a seated flutist; with its smooth curvy lines running lyrically and the legs of the flutist crossing in buddhistic meditation manner, it evokes thoughts of traditional images for its audience yet retaining a 'modern look'.
For the present lot which is entitled ourtesy, Khien focused on the love between lovers and the flirtation between man and woman. Sitting in the arms of her lover, the woman expresses the appropriate degree of shyness for a Thai lady and her features (oval shaped face, elegant long fingers and the round waist and hip) would correspond with the image of a traditional Thai beauty.
The present lot was submitted for competition during the Seventh National Art Exhibition in 1956, Thailand.
Indeed Khien was able to synthesize the modern and traditional elements in his works, best exemplified by The Musical Rhythm (fig a.) which is a composition of a seated flutist; with its smooth curvy lines running lyrically and the legs of the flutist crossing in buddhistic meditation manner, it evokes thoughts of traditional images for its audience yet retaining a 'modern look'.
For the present lot which is entitled ourtesy, Khien focused on the love between lovers and the flirtation between man and woman. Sitting in the arms of her lover, the woman expresses the appropriate degree of shyness for a Thai lady and her features (oval shaped face, elegant long fingers and the round waist and hip) would correspond with the image of a traditional Thai beauty.
The present lot was submitted for competition during the Seventh National Art Exhibition in 1956, Thailand.