In Chinese history the art of sculpture came to its peak in the Tang Dynasty and went into decline after the Song Dynasty.  In very ancient times sculptors were largely concerned with making images of spirits and gods.  Then later, during the Shang and Zhou Dynasties the subject matter was mainly animals.  The Han Dynasty is famous for its galloping horses, and the Sothern and Northern Dynasties were dedicated to the image of Buddha.  During the Sui and Tang Dynasties certain Western traits and characteristics began to appear in figurative works.  When we look at today's sculptors, few of them impress us as much as Ren Zhe; his works have a very bright and uplifting effect on us.  Viewing his works over time makes us think about the many centuries of our history; we have 5,000 years of recorded history.  Ren Zhe embodies our cultural heritage in his figurative works.  He fills his figures with his own emotions and the technique he employs for detailed work is very refined.  It is easy to relate to his works, as if they were an old friend.  His technique is natural in style, but he merges this with some new ideas.  His works are lively and masculine, expressive and powerful.  Ren Zhe is the most impressive young sculptor in China today. He is a talented and sensitive artist and if he continues to absorb more and more of his cultural heritage then his future is endlessly bright.

Wong Yaming

Deputy Director of The Palace Museum

​Beijing