This is a monumental work by Taiwanese master sculptor, Ju Ming (b.1938). It is an early work created by the artist’s own hands and was made in New York for Ju Ming’s second one man USA exhibition at the Max Hutchinson Gallery in Soho, New York City in 1983.

Plum Blossoms Gallery acquired this ceramic sculpture from the estate of the late Max Hutchinson. Ju Ming has produced other ceramic fish but this is the largest by far of the known example of this genre. 

Before Ju Ming became known for his signature Tai Chi series, his art practice was characterized by his Zen approach to making art. These early Zen inspired works showed the artist’s quick hands and exhibit the free flow of energy from mind to hand.

This Ceramic Fish is imbued with those characteristics and Ju Ming’s fingerprints are pressed into the now fired clay. His works created after he found fame have increasingly been the product of his workshop with the artist as director rather than fabricator. The early works are rare and really exemplify the talent and power that established Ju Ming’s fame.