Lim Tze Peng, Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore, 1974
Chinese ink and colour on rice paper
68 x 43 cm (visible), 98 x 67 x 4 cm (framed)
Condition: Very good, with foxing to the lower left section of the backing and with a slight tear to the right section of the artwork.
Acquired from Confluence Art Space, Singapore.
Certificate of Authenticity from Confluence Art Space available.
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Lim Tze Peng writes the characters 甲寅秋日, meaning “an autumn day in the Jia-Yin year.” Jia-Yin (甲寅) is a designation within the traditional Chinese sexagenary cycle, a 60-year calendrical system formed by the combination of the ten Heavenly Stems and twelve Earthly Branches. The work was executed in the Jia-Yin year of 1974.
Lim Tze Peng 林子平 (Singaporean, 1921-2025), renowned as one of Singapore’s foremost visual artists, particularly revered within the realm of Chinese ink and calligraphy, this esteemed centenarian stood as a beacon of artistic excellence. Lim, mastery of the significant Nanyang Style, a hallmark of Singapore’s early art scene, was palpable in his early Chinese ink paintings, showcasing a profound connection to cultural roots.
Embarking on his artistic odyssey in the vibrant 1950s, alongside his 30-year tenure as the principal of Xinmin Secondary School, this self-taught artist meticulously crafted a body of work that dove deep into the cultural and critical landscapes. In 2003, Lim’s unparalleled contributions to Singaporean art and culture were formally recognised as he was bestowed with the prestigious Cultural Medallion (Visual Arts), a testament to his enduring legacy and pivotal role in shaping the nation’s artistic narrative.
(Photographed in July 2026)