At an end-of-year clearance sale in the Neihu district of Taipei, a painting attributed to Huang Jun-Bi was purchased for NT$99,000 by a self-proclaimed “antique appraiser,” who claimed that the signature confirmed the artwork’s authenticity. In response, Dr. Ye Guo-Shin, Assistant Professor of Fine Arts at National Taiwan Normal University and PhD in Art Authentication from the UK, stated that determining the authenticity of paintings and calligraphy is quite complex, and relying solely on photographs and signatures to determine authenticity is not rigorous enough.

Dr. Ye Guo-Shin explained that art authentication is a scientific, logical, and systematic process. It requires comprehensive examination of the artist’s era, regional styles, school of thought, and even their evolving personal style (brushwork, ink techniques, color application), as well as aesthetic philosophy, inscription style, seals, signatures, materials, and even the composition of ink and mounting. A set procedure for authentication must be followed, analyzing concrete evidence to assess the authenticity and quality of the artwork.

Huang Jun-Bi was a renowned figure in art history and one of the “Three Masters Crossing the Sea” in traditional Chinese painting. He combined the strengths of both the southern and northern schools of painting, while incorporating elements from Western influence, such as yin-yang balance and sketching techniques. He became famous later in life for his landscapes featuring waterfalls and clouds. However, his earlier detailed works in the Song and Yuan styles, as well as his meticulous bird-and-flower studies and mountain landscapes (especially those inspired by the Qing Four Monks’ Shixi style), are highly sought after by collectors on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Huang’s counterfeit works often come from Taiwan, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and other regions. However, his artistic style, inscription format, seal designs, and base materials vary significantly across different periods of his career. Despite his deep skill, forgeries still fall short when compared to his authentic works. A professional appraiser familiar with his style would not find it difficult to distinguish between the genuine article and forgeries.

(The Liberty Times [Reporter Ling Mei-Xue, Taipei Report])

The late master Huang Jun-Bi’s landscape painting was ultimately sold for NT$99,000. (Photographed by Reporter Zhou Yan-Yu)

Original news source: (Title not original) Found a Bargain with a Huang Jun-Bi Painting? Expert Says Determining Authenticity Based on Signature Alone is Rash.

Related Reports: Recycled Furniture Sale: Suspected Huang Jun-Bi Painting Found “Bargain”