The Brushmaster’s Legacy: Nguyen Gia Tri’s Art Shatters Global Auction History

The exquisite oil painting, a testament to the masterful artistry of Nguyen Gia Tri, achieved an extraordinary auction result at Christie’s Hong Kong, fetching HKD16.1 million (US$2.07 million) on March 29.

The renowned Vietnamese artist Nguyen Gia Tri alongside one of his artistic creations. Photo: Archive

Nguyen Gia Tri, a pioneering figure in modern Vietnamese art, stands alongside contemporaries such as To Ngoc Van, Nguyen Tuong Lan, and Tran Van Can. He is revered for his significant contributions to the evolution of Vietnamese fine arts during the early 20th century.

This exceptional artwork forms part of Philippe Damas’ esteemed collection, “A Quest for Eternity.” The collection comprises 51 paintings by a diverse group of 32 artists, including 15 Vietnamese and 17 French masters, each bringing their unique perspective to the canvas.

The auction featured a stellar lineup of Vietnamese artistic talent, including the likes of Mai Thu, Le Pho, Vu Cao Dam, and, of course, Nguyen Gia Tri. Additionally, the works of renowned Indochinese painters such as Victor Tardieu and Alix Ayme were also presented. However, it was Nguyen Gia Tri’s “Les Trois Femmes” (Three Women) that emerged as the undisputed highlight of the evening. This luminous oil painting, a rare departure from the artist’s typical medium and style, showcased his refined craftsmanship, unparalleled understanding of form, and timeless elegance.

The captivating “Les Trois Femmes” (Three Women) by Nguyen Gia Tri.

The painting depicts three Vietnamese women adorned in traditional attire, their faces gently framed by the folds of their elegant turbans. The scene captures a young woman kneeling in a gesture of reverence before an older woman, possibly her mother. This powerful composition speaks to the themes of generational continuity and the deep-rooted cultural respect that is so intrinsic to Vietnamese society. Nguyen Gia Tri’s delicate and ethereal artistic style lends a poignant beauty to this narrative, reflecting the quiet dignity that is the hallmark of his oeuvre.

According to the esteemed Vietnamese art critic Ly Doi, “Les Trois Femmes” stands as an exceptional work in Nguyen Gia Tri’s career, who is predominantly recognized for his mastery of lacquer painting. Ly Doi notes that “the use of oil in this painting is a rare departure for him, likely influenced by his early training at the Indochina Fine Arts School under the tutelage of his French teacher, Joseph Inguimberty.” The composition bears the imprint of Inguimberty’s palette and techniques, coupled with Nguyen Gia Tri’s early exposure to oil painting during his formative years. Additionally, Ly Doi draws attention to the painting’s exceptional preservation and clear provenance, both of which significantly enhance its value in the art world.

The auction result far surpassed expectations, firmly establishing “Les Trois Femmes” as one of the most expensive Vietnamese artworks ever sold. With this remarkable achievement, Nguyen Gia Tri’s masterpiece now ranks fourth in the top ten most expensive Vietnamese paintings. It joins the esteemed company of Mai Trung Thu’s “Portrait of Miss Phuong” ($3.1 million in 2021), Le Pho’s “Family in the Garden” ($2.37 million in 2023), and Le Pho’s “Shape in the Garden” ($2.29 million in 2022), further cementing the global recognition of Vietnamese artistic talent.

The esteemed art collector Philippe Damas with his remarkable collection. Photo: christies.com

Nguyen Gia Tri’s innovative approach to composition, often involving monumental canvases with separate panels, became a defining characteristic of his artistic style. This unique style seamlessly blended the tactile richness of lacquer with a sense of ethereal beauty, captivating viewers and critics alike.

As the global art community turns its attention to Southeast Asia, the art of Vietnam, with its rich blend of indigenous culture and European influences, is taking its rightful place in the modern art dialogue. The triumph of “Les Trois Femmes” at auction pays homage to Nguyen Gia Tri’s enduring legacy and underscores the timeless allure of Indochina’s artistic heritage.

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