24.

Zhao Zongzao (b. 1931)

Xiang Lin’s Wife, an Illustration to the Short Story ‘New Year’s Sacrifice’ by Lu Xun

1982

Woodblock print

32 x 23 cm

​

Zhao Zongzao’s portrait of Xiang Lin’s wife is a very sympathetic one. The contrasting black and white areas effectively express the age and angst of his subject. Unlike the detailed view of the village in the previous print (no. 23), Zhao marks out the scene with just a few cuts. Zhao Zongzao’s oeuvre displays a remarkable range of styles and subjects, from works like this to colourful propaganda scenes and evocative, spiritual landscapes (nos. 65-69).

​

Muban Educational Trust registration number zhazz043