{"status":true,"msg":{"data":{"id":50105,"auction_id":99,"set_id":131,"lot_number":"9","artist":"Lao Lianben (b. 1948)","title":"Stillness","starting_price":2000000,"signed_dated":"signed and dated 1994 (lower middle)","medium":"acrylic, modeling paste on burlap","size":"36\" x 48\" (91 cm x 122 cm)","property":null,"coa":null,"provenance":"Private collection, Makati City","exhibited":null,"literature":null,"write_up":"A man once sat in silence on a snow-covered mountain. He was a monk in meditation. He immersed himself in the inner stillness and his spirit was harmonious with nature. A calm aura emanated from him and beside his still body were wild birds at ease with his serene presence. He was God? Nakanishi, a Buddhist monk, a poet, and a prominent ornithologist in Japan.
A similar scene can be observed in this 1994 piece entitled Stillness by Lao Lianben.
A master of non-representative art in the local scene, Lao is known to create monochromatic compositions that exhibit a wellspring of Oriental inspiration and Zen aesthetics. As plain as a Lao piece may appear, it allures its beholder into profound contemplations and meditations, inviting them to uncover its deep and hidden meanings. His art evokes sensitivity and creativity, insight and intuition. It does not disturb. Yet, it is arresting.
In Buddhism, ‘samatha’ is a practice of sustained attention to a single focus, and in its deepest development, it leads to a temporary suspension of the activity of body and mind, and thus as well a temporary suspension of obstacles and obstructions. A transition from desire to end of desire. The essence of the spiritual self is found only when one is in the state of still. The principle is embodied in this masterpiece, where all else is rendered indistinct except for the amorphous subjects. A perfect portrayal of the Samatha.
In the language of Pali, ‘samatha’ means stillness. And, stillness is the absence of movement or sound. The abstract silhouettes in the middle of the canvas are still—they verge on coalescing into recognizable shapes, but only at a moment, revealing no more than their obscured figures.
A symbolic message can be found in their presence, a striking occurrence that is illuminated and sincere. Perhaps, an intention of deliberate stillness? A Zen proverb says, “We cannot see our reflection in running water. It is only in still water that we can see.” The same can be said with the inner spirit, when perfectly calm, the stillness within is reflected. (P.I.R.)","lot_group":"PAINTING","lot_details_html":"
Lao Lianben (b. 1948) Stillness signed and dated 1994 (lower middle) acrylic, modeling paste on burlap 36\" x 48\" (91 cm x 122 cm)