LOT 88
YUSOF GHANI
B. Johor, 1950
Biring Series XXIX, 2006
Signed and dated “Yusof Ghani 06” on lower right
Signed and dated on verso
Illustrated on page 69 of “Biring by Yusof Ghani, A Malaysian Master” coffee table book published in 2007 in conjuction with the Biring exhibition
Charcoal and acrylic on canvas
122 x 90 cm
Private Collection, Kuala Lumpur
RM 80,000 – RM 160,000
Yusof Ghani’s ‘Biring’ series strays away from his other series that feature the human form, masks and nature. His most coveted works are from the rare, ‘Protest’ series while the artists’ most recognised and collected artworks are part of the ‘Tari’ series. The ‘Biring’ series is the artist’s rendition of a cock-fight, symbolising the heroism and strife between mankind. The use of vibrant hues and expressive brush strokes makes it an inundating artwork.
Instead of Yusof’s usual vibrant colours of blue, he employed an earthy palette with this work, paired with Yusof’s innate prowess, he creates swirls of colours that finally take the form of roosters at the centre of the artwork. The roosters depicted in his painting seem to be in motion, wings flapping about as they fight for their lives. Biring’ is definitely one of Yusof Ghani’s most enlightened body of works, for not only have the works been painted with wild abandon and freedom, but more importantly demonstrate the artist’s ability to leave the comfort of the familiar.