Zao Wou-Ki, Ville verte (1952): A Masterpiece from the Philippe Dennery Collection at Auction

ZAO WOU-KI, Ville verte, 1952. Estimate USD 2,840,000-4,000,000 (EUR 2,500,000–3,500,000). Courtesy Artcurial, Paris.

On June 6^th 2025 at 2pm CET, Artcurial will offer at auction Ville verte (Green City), an extraordinary painting created in 1952 by Zao Wou-Ki. Monumental in both scale and historical significance, this work is one of the highlights of the Philippe Dennery Collection—a reflection of the intellectual journey, refined sensibility, and deep curiosity of a remarkable man.

A scientist, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and music lover, Philippe Dennery spent his life collecting with rare discernment and a constant pursuit of beauty. Far more than a mere assemblage of objects, his collection represents a profoundly personal and thoughtful quest—that of a passionate mind forging connections between forms, cultures, and eras.

At its core, Ville verte stands out for its exceptional pictorial quality, distinctive style — navigating the threshold between figuration and abstraction—impressive dimensions (130 x 150 cm / 51 x 59 in), and significant date: 1952.

Zao Wou-Ki is regarded as the most important Chinese painter to emerge in the West during the second half of the 20th century. Arriving in Paris from Shanghai in 1948, he brought with him a solid foundation in both classical Chinese art and Western modernism.

**ZAO WOU-KI** in his studio, circle 1950s.

At first glance, the painting may appear abstract, evoking a sense of mystery. But upon closer inspection, one begins to discern boats, cranes, buildings, and steeples—an animated port scene gradually takes shape. Signs become pictograms; drawing turns into rhythm.

Zao Wou-Ki masterfully balances drawing and color. Subtle layers of emerald green, enriched with reds and ochres, showcase his technical virtuosity. The result is a poetic harmony of energy, serenity, and depth—a transposition of traditional Chinese imagery into a resolutely modern visual language.

Rare in both scale and date, Ville verte is one of only eight works of this size from the period recorded in the artist’s archives. It represents both a critical milestone in Zao’s evolution toward lyrical abstraction and a work of major historical importance on the market.

**ZAO WOU-KI**, *Ville verte* (detail), 1952. Courtesy Artcurial, Paris.

Offered on June 6th during the auction of the Philippe Dennery Collection at Artcurial, Ville verte is a landmark painting—where East meets West, tradition meets modernity, and figuration gives way to lyrical abstraction. A rare opportunity to acquire a cornerstone of Zao Wou-Ki’s artistic legacy.

The sale will also feature a curated selection of exceptional pieces from the collector’s home, including striking floor lamps by Alberto Giacometti and a rare pair of Régence period armchairs — each a testament to Philippe Dennery’s singular eye for beauty and harmony across styles and centuries.

Philippe Dennery’s collection. Courtesy Artcurial, Paris.

This exceptional auction will be presented by Artcurial, France’s leading auction house. Thanks to its international outlook and strong ties to the Asian market, Artcurial continues to assert its position as a major player in the global art world.

The offering of Ville verte as part of its prestigious June sales reflects the house’s ability to orchestrate landmark events around works of outstanding historical and artistic significance.