LU HUI (1851-1920)
Chickens / Ancient trees and Secluded Groves
Two scrolls, mounted for framing, ink and colour on paper
1. Chickens measures 67.3 x 29 cm. (26 ¹⁄₂ x 11 ³⁄₈ in.)
Inscribed and signed, with two seals of the artist
Dated autumn, eighth month, gengyin year (1890)
One collector's seal

2. Ancient trees and Secluded Groves measures 137.7 x 44.7 cm. (54 ¹⁄₄ x 17 ⁵⁄₈ in.)
Entitled, inscribed and signed, with two seals of the artist

Kwok Zhongyi (1900-1994), also known as Xiaoqing, Zhongyi, with studio name Qin Yan Zhai (Studio of Qin and Inkstone), was a distinguished art connoisseur from Shanghai during the Republican period. He was closely associated with esteemed artists such as Wu Hufan, Xie Zhiliu, Zhang Daqian, Pu Ru, and Peking Opera performer Mei Lanfang, which helped enrich his artistic pursuits and inspiration. Kwok’s diverse interests extended beyond art, encompassing music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. As a result, his home exuded an atmosphere of vibrant artistic expression.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Kwok Chun-Po (1938-2022) inherited and continued the artistic traditions and knowledge of Qin Yan Zhai. He graduated from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music and became a celebrated tenor. After relocating to Hong Kong, he actively immersed himself in the world of collecting antiques and paintings. The Kwok family’s relationship with Wu Hufan grew stronger, with Wu cherishing Kwok Chun-po as his godson. The Qin Yan Zhai collection includes exceptional Wu Hufan artworks, along with many classical paintings and seals bearing his colophons.