Khaw Sia Paintings & Artwork for Sale | Khaw Sia Art Value Price Guide

Apr. 20, 2025
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Untitled
Est: RM5,000 - RM9,000
Balinese women have inspired painters around the world and are revered for their timeless beauty and grace. A charming lady at work is wonderfully captured with subtle colours and intricate details. Khaw Sia captures the essence and culture of Balinese people using flowing lines and watercolours. Khaw Sia is perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Haisu's Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-1932) and informal private lessons under British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Dec. 08, 2024
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Kampung, 1970s
Est: RM6,000 - RM10,000
In this scene, Khaw Sia expressed his fascination with the architecture of traditional village homes made of natural materials such as wood. He had painted this view on a sunlit day where shadows were cast onto the grounds surrounding the houses with large, thatched roofs. The rustic views of the village surrounded by clear blue water and skies must have captured the imagination of the artist. Khaw Sia was perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Haisu's Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-1932) and informal private lessons under British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Aug. 25, 2024
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Fishing Village, 1960
Est: RM1,500 - RM3,000
In this composition, two figures are fishing by the riverbank in a village settlement. The gentle, translucent reflections of the boat are seen in the water, with the use of soft blue washes to evoke the water's movement. Towering branches and green foliage masses add visual interest and provide a partial frame for the scene. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-1932, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Jan. 14, 2024
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Untitled
Est: RM6,500 - RM11,000
Balinese women have inspired painters around the world and are revered for their timeless beauty and grace. A charming lady at work is wonderfully captured with subtle colours and intricate details. Khaw Sia captures the essence and culture of Balinese people using flowing lines and watercolours. Khaw Sia is perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Haisu's Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-1932) and informal private lessons under British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Jun. 25, 2023
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Lobsters And Prawns
Est: RM7,000 - RM12,000
Here is a traditional painting category, the still life, invigorated with elements of exotic Asian cuisine. On the plate is the entrÃ©e, the clawed lobsters and prawns steamed for the carapace to exude a golden red glow, and luscious slow-roasted tomatoes placed together fill in for added colour. The still life is complete with beverage and lemons, adorned with yellow daisies giving a very delicate and seasonal touch. Born in Shanghai and studied at Sin Hwa Academy, Khaw Sia was trained privately under Sir Russell Flint of England in 1933. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and received numerous awards from Le Salon Paris (1956), Summer Salon 14th annual exhibition at the Royal Institute Galleries, London (1957) and National Society 25th Exhibition, England (1958). A member of the American Orchid Society, he is well known for his painting of orchids. His passion for orchids resulted in him travelling extensively to Taiwan, Philippines, Hong Kong, Thailand and Indonesia, looking for new species for his garden and capturing their beauty on paper.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Jun. 25, 2023
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Fishing Village, 1960
Est: RM3,500 - RM6,500
In this composition, two figures are fishing on the banks of a river before a village settlement. The gentle, translucent reflections of the boat are seen in the water, with the use of soft blue washes to evoke the water's movement. Towering branches and green foliage masses add visual interest and provides a partial frame for the scene. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-1932, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Apr. 26, 2023
KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984)
Est: £150 - £250
KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984) KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984) Daelis-Cattleya Atlantis signed and dated K. Sia (lower right) watercolour 42 x 57cm
Chiswick Auctions
Apr. 26, 2023
KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984)
Est: £150 - £250
KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984) KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984) Daelis-Cattleya Saldeni signed and dated K. Sia. 1957 (lower left) watercolour 64.5 x 78cm
Chiswick Auctions
Mar. 31, 2023
KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984)
Est: £300 - £500
KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984) KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984) Daelis-Cattleya Atlantis signed and dated K. Sia (lower right) watercolour 42 x 57cm
Chiswick Auctions
Mar. 31, 2023
KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984)
Est: £300 - £500
KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984) KHAW SIA (CHINESE 1913-1984) Daelis-Cattleya Saldeni signed and dated K. Sia. 1957 (lower left) watercolour 64.5 x 78cm
Chiswick Auctions
Mar. 19, 2023
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Balinese Maiden
Est: RM12,000 - RM20,000
The landscapes, people, and rich culture of Bali have inspired artists. Balinese Maiden features a graceful woman in preparation for the local ceremonial rituals of the community. Seated on the floor with her hair adorned with flowers, the lady shows devotion through the making of offerings. Khaw Sia expressed these quiet moments with a meditative serenity. Khaw Sia is perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Haisu's Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-1932) and informal private lessons under BritishScottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Mar. 19, 2023
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Orchids, 1975
Est: RM8,000 - RM13,000
This exquisite cascade of blooming Phalaenopsis orchids is testament to Khaw Sia's accomplished technique using the medium of watercolour. The beauty of the orchids are delicately rendered, reflecting the values of unity, love, and purity. The pristine blooms last for a long time and is therefore a symbol of longevity. Tiny dew drops placed on the leaves complement the liveliness of the flowers. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-1932, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958. A member of the American Orchid Society, he is well known for his painting of orchids. His passion for orchids resulted in him travelling extensively to Taiwan, Philippines, Hong Kong, Thailand and Indonesia, looking for new species for his garden and capturing their beauty on paper.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Mar. 19, 2023
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Still Life (Seafood), 1981
Est: RM8,500 - RM13,000
Here is a traditional painting category, the still life, invigorated with elements of exotic Asian cuisine. On the plate is the entrÃ©e, the clawed lobsters and crab steamed for the carapace to exude a golden red glow, and luscious slow-roasted tomatoes placed together fill in for added colour. The still life is complete with cockles and squid, adorned with white and yellow chrysanthemums giving a very delicate and seasonal touch. Born in Shanghai and studied at Sin Hwa Academy, Khaw Sia was trained privately under Sir Russell Flint of England in 1933. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and received numerous awards from Le Salon Paris (1956), Summer Salon 14th annual exhibition at the Royal Institute Galleries, London (1957) and National Society 25th Exhibition, England (1958). A member of the American Orchid Society, he is well known for his painting of orchids. His passion for orchids resulted in him travelling extensively to Taiwan, Philippines, Hong Kong, Thailand and Indonesia, looking for new species for his garden and capturing their beauty on paper.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Mar. 19, 2023
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - 1984) Capitol Theatre - Raintree County, 1957
Est: RM3,000 - RM5,500
Capitol Theatre brings back a treasure trove of good memories for the local people. It used to be a bustling movie theatre located at Penang Road junction. The American blockbuster Raintree County, a historical romance film was on show at the time. A member of the American Orchid Society, he is well known for his painting of orchids. His passion for orchids resulted in him travelling extensively to Taiwan, Philippines, Hong Kong, Thailand and Indonesia, looking for new species for his garden and capturing their beauty on paper.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Nov. 06, 2022
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - 1984) Untitled
Est: RM8,000 - RM13,000
This exquisite cascade of white Phalaenopsis orchids is testament to Khaw Sia's accomplished technique using the medium of watercolour. The beauty of the orchids are delicately rendered, reflecting the values of unity, love, and purity. The pristine blooms last for a long time and are therefore a symbol of longevity. Tiny dew drops placed on the leaves and petals complement the liveliness of the flowers. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-1932, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Nov. 06, 2022
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - 1984) Untitled, 1972
Est: RM8,000 - RM13,000
It is said that Khaw Sia captured orchids in his paintings like no other. An avid orchid lover, Khaw Sia would travel to Taiwan, Japan and Thailand to take part in orchid exhibitions and symposiums. He even held solo exhibitions in watercolours dedicated just to orchids. Despite Khaw Sia being one of the most versatile among the pioneer artists, it is for the orchids that he is dubbed the Orchid King of Malaysian Art. The precious dew drops on the petals and leaves enhance the composition, accompanied by a lovely butterfly and three golden bees. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-1932, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Nov. 06, 2022
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - 1984) Fishing Village, 1960
Est: RM6,000 - RM10,000
In this harmonious composition, two figures are fishing on the banks of a river before a village settlement. The gentle, translucent reflections of the boat are seen in the water, with the use of soft blue washes to evoke the water's movement. Towering branches and green foliage masses add visual interest and provides a partial frame for the scene. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-1932, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Dec. 05, 2021
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - d. 1984) Horse Riding, 1972
Est: RM50,000 - RM80,000
Horse-riding must be part of the attractions of the hotel that commissioned the versatile pioneer artist Khaw Sia to paint four huge mural-sized works about different related themes. It must have been a luxury-class hotel to have within its precincts open grassland dotted with trees and the lapping waves on the seashore nearby. As depicted are riders on horsebacks, probably hotel guests, of different generations and sexes, having a go on the bridle. They don’t look like pro equestrian riders as they are not in riding attire with safety helmets. So the six riders heading inland are having a lark of a leisurely trot, but they seem to be handling the horses reasonably well. Khaw Sia had the distinction of informal tutelage under the great British watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint in London in 1933, apart from formal training at the great Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-1932). By the 1950s, he had achieved such impeccable standard that his works were accepted in the Le Salon Paris, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London, and the London National Society exhibition. He was accorded a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. Born in Shanghai, Khaw Sia migrated to Penang with his family in 1937, and had his first solo there in 1955. Though adept at painting various subjects in a variety of media, Khaw Sia was also an avid orchid cultivator and painter, winning him the sobriquet Orchid King.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Dec. 05, 2021
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - d. 1984) Bersilat, 1972
Est: RM55,000 - RM85,000
Silat and satay may seem an odd combination, but if silat combat demonstration could help sell sticks of the grilled skewered meat, why not? A gateway proudly proclaims the name of the hotel, with a modern edifice in the distance beside what looks like a pavilion in traditional mushroom architecture, so the spectators are likely hotel guests. Comfortably seated under a makeshift canopy, the spectators, especially if they are foreigners, are regaled to the gastronomic delights of satay while watching the pugilistic skills of the indigenous martial art found only in the Malay archipelago. But what’s really ‘hot’ comes from the sparks and embers of the burning charcoal as the cooks grill the marinaded chicken and beef meat to perfection. Dipped into succulent peanut sauce, the satay tastes heavenly. This artwork was part of four commissioned jobs for a hotel in 1972. The artist Khaw Sia based the work partly on a 1967 composition in gouache on paper, depicting satay sellers and joget dancers under a canopy of Chinese lanterns, which was shown in the exhibition, Artists Imagine A Nation: Pictures of People and Places from the collections of Khor Seow Chuan and Friends in 2015. It was organised by the LaSalle College of Fine Arts in Singapore.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Mar. 28, 2021
KHAW SIA : Orchids
Est: RM5,000 - RM9,000
Khaw Sia was born in China in 1913 and studied art at the Sung Hua Academy in Shanghai as well as undertaking a private tuition in watercolour painting under Sir Russell Flint in England. His family migrated to Penang in 1937. Besides a master in oil, pastel and watercolour painting, he is also an expert in the cultivation of orchids. In fact, he is able to capture any flower’s beauty on paper, depicting its delicacy, charm and elegance, with colour so radiant and brimming over with life. He has received a number of awards for his art, notably from the Le Salon Paris in 1956 and the National Society 25th Exhibition in England in 1958. He passed away in 1984 at the age of 71 years.
KLAS Art Auction
Mar. 21, 2021
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - d. 1984) Orchids, 1981
Est: RM2,500 - RM4,500
It is said that Khaw Sia captured orchids in his paintings like no other. An avid orchid lover, Khaw Sia would travel to Taiwan, Japan and Thailand to take part in orchid exhibitions and symposiums. He even held solo exhibitions in watercolours dedicated just to orchids. Despite Khaw Sia being one of the most versatile among the pioneer artists, it is for the orchids that he is dubbed the Orchid King of Malaysian Art. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-1932, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Mar. 21, 2021
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - d. 1984) Bali Padi Field, early 1980s
Est: RM15,000 - RM25,000
Khaw Sia first went to Bali, Indonesia, in 1954, after the much ballyhooed 1952 field trip to Bali by the Singaporean Big Four, namely Cheong Soo Pieng, Chen Wenhsi, Chen Chong Swee and Liu Kang. It is not certain if the flamboyant artist did it from memory or had visited the place again before the work. Khaw Sia’s first solo in Penang, on his coming-over to Malaya in 1937, was of Balinese women and landscape. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-1932, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Nov. 15, 2020
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - d. 1984) Bali Padi Field, 1982
Est: RM9,000 - RM16,000
Khaw Sia first went to Bali, Indonesia, in 1954, after the much-ballyhooed 1952 field trip to Bali by the Singaporean Big Four, namely Cheong Soo-Pieng, Chen Wen-Hsi, Chen Chong Swee and Liu Kang. This work, with Mount Agong in the backdrop, is dated 1982, and it is not certain if the flamboyant artist did it from memory or had visited the place again before the work. Khaw Sia’s first solo in Penang, on his coming-over to Malaya in 1937, was of Balinese women and landscape. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-1932, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Nov. 15, 2020
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - d. Penang, 1984) Balinese Beauty
Est: RM6,500 - RM13,000
Balinese women have inspired painters around the world and are revered for their timeless beauty and grace. This work conveys a simple elegance depicting the back of a seated dancer with intricate details. Khaw Sia captures the essence and culture of Balinese people using flowing lines. Khaw Sia is perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Haisu’s Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-1932) and informal private lessons under British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Aug. 23, 2020
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - d. 1984) Orchids
Est: RM6,000 - RM10,000
Khaw Sia was an avid orchid breeder-cultivator and a member of the American Orchid Society, and travelled extensively to Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia to learn about new, different species and to attend orchid conventions. Naturally, orchids became one of his favourite subjects, and he had developed his trademark realist style of dewdrops on the orchid petals. Indeed, he had solos exclusively on orchid still-lifes in 1966, 1976 and 1977, all in Penang. Khaw Sia is perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Haisu’s Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-1932) and informal private lessons under British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Mar. 15, 2020
Khaw Sia (b. China, 1913 - d. 1984) Bali Padi Field, 1982
Est: RM11,000 - RM19,000
Khaw Sia first went to Bali, Indonesia, in 1954, after the much ballyhooed 1952 field trip to Bali by the Singaporean Big Four, namely Cheong Soo-Pieng, Chen Wen-hsi, Chen Chong Swee and Liu Kang. This work, with Mount Agong in the backdrop, is dated 1982, and it is not certain if the flamboyant artist did it from memory or had visited the place again before the work. Khaw Sia’s first solo in Penang, on his coming-over to Malaya in 1937, was of Balinese women and landscape. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-32, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flintin London in 1933. He was given a posthumous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works were accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Nov. 03, 2019
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - d. 1984) Orchids In Nature, 1983
Est: RM6,000 - RM10,000
Khaw Sia was an avid orchid breeder-cultivator and a member of the American Orchid Society, and travelled extensively to Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia to learn about new and different species and to attend orchid conventions. Naturally, orchids became one of his favourite subjects, and he had developed his trademark realist style of dewdrops on the orchid petals. Indeed, he had solos exclusively on orchid still-lifes in 1966, 1976 and 1977, all in Penang. Khaw Sia is perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Haisu’s Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-32) and informal private lessons under British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Jul. 07, 2019
KHAW SIA : Brasso Yellow Hammer
Est: RM7,000 - RM10,000
"Khaw Sia was born in China in 1913 and studied art at the Sung Hua Academy in Shanghai as well as undertaking a private tuition in watercolour painting under Sir Russell Flint in England. His family migrated to Penang in 1937. Besides a master in oil, pastel and watercolour painting, he is also an expert in the cultivation of orchids. In fact, he is able to capture any flowerês beauty on paper, depicting its delicacy, charm and elegance, with colour so radiant and brimming over with life. He has received a number of awards for his art, notably from the Le Salon Paris in 1956 and the National So iety 25th Exhibition in England in 1958. He passed away in 1984 at the age of 71 years."
KLAS Art Auction
Jun. 30, 2019
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - d. 1984) Seafood, 1983
Est: RM10,000 - RM18,000
In 1983, to have lobsters was regarded a sumptuous feast although it’s a heady concoction to eat it with Chinese wine mixed with a glass of beer. A squeeze of lemon helps maybe, but the chrysanthemum flowers could be in the plater just for decoration, for a more presentable still-life. This was painted a year before his death. Khaw Sia was a versatile pioneer, being adept at a variety of media and subjects such as still-life, portraits, landscape and was particularly noted for his painting of orchids, and hence, the tag as ‘Orchid King’. Khaw Sia was honoured with a posthumous Retrospective in 1998 by the Penang State Art Gallery. In 1937, he settled in Penang where he held his first solo in 1955. He studied at the Sin Hwa Academy, Shanghai, in China (1925-1932), and migrated to Penang in 1937.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Jun. 30, 2019
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - d. 1984) Houses By The Volcano, 1930s
Est: RM1,000 - RM1,800
It is unclear where the ‘house by the volcano’ referred to here is, with the circa 1930s time frame, although a similar scene is featured on Page 110 in the book, The Art of Khaw Sia and Kuo Ju-ping, by Dato Dr Tan Chee Khuan. The only place with a volcano which Khaw Sia had visited was Indonesia, specifically Bali and Kintamani, and that was in 1954. He held a solo exhibition of his Balinese paintings in 1955. He had also been to, and stayed in, China, Hong Kong and Britain. The house with the volcano in the backdrop is shown amidst sparse vegetation and dull colours with a dirt track leading to it. The occupant (s) could not be anything but a farmer. Did Khaw Sia paint this after his informal lessons under Sir Russell Flint (1880-1969) in London in 1933? His later watercolours in the later half of the 1950s show greater maturity in execution and technique. Like the ones accepted by the Le Salon Paris (1956), the Royal Institute Galleries in London (1957), and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London (1958).
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Mar. 24, 2019
Khaw Sia (b. 1913 - d. 1984) Evening Coming Home, 1983
Est: RM6,000 - RM10,000
The artist conveyed evening effects in this work, illustrating a scene of a traditional village with women engaging in daily tasks and a man along his way home. He painted with confident strokes, in a palette of subtle colours and tones to create an impression of sunset in the evening. The artist captured the village setting, huts and natural environment with swift brushstrokes. He painted in luminous colour harmonies, using subtle nuances of ochre, greens and mauve which evoke the calmness of a quiet evening. Khaw Sia is perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Haisuâs Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-1932) and informal private lessons under British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958. 69 x 49cm
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Sep. 23, 2018
KHAW SIA : Brasso Yellow Hammer
Est: RM5,000 - RM8,000
Khaw Sia was born in China in 1913 and studied art at the Sung Hua Academy in Shanghai as well as undertaking a private tuition in watercolour painting under Sir Russell Flint in England. His family migrated to Penang in 1937. Besides a master in oil, pastel and watercolour painting, he is also an expert in the cultivation of orchids. In fact, he is able to capture any flowerÕs beauty on paper, depicting its delicacy, charm and elegance, with colour so radiant and brimming over with life. He has received a number of awards for his art, notably from the Le Salon Paris in 1956 and the National Society 25th Exhibition in England in 1958. He passed away in 1984 at the age of 71 years.
KLAS Art Auction
Jul. 08, 2018
KHAW SIA : Untitled
Est: RM3,900 - RM7,000
Khaw Sia, an expert in the cultivation of orchids allowed him to capture its beauty on paper, depicting the delicacy and charm of orchids, with colour so radiant and brimming over with life.
KLAS Art Auction
Jul. 08, 2018
KHAW SIA : Untitled
Est: RM3,900 - RM7,000
Khaw Sia, an expert in the cultivation of orchids allowed him to capture its beauty on paper, depicting the delicacy and charm of orchids, with colour so radiant and brimming over with life.
KLAS Art Auction
Apr. 29, 2018
KHAW SIA (b. 1913 - d. 1984) JOGET UNDER CHINESE LANTERNS, 1972, Oil on canvas mounted on board
Est: RM70,000 - RM120,000
Its origin in Malacca, the joget is a traditional Malay dance, commonly accompanied by Malay instruments such as the rebana, gong and gendang – percussion instruments; and is usually performed in social functions. Here, the artist depicts a scene of early Malaysia, where the joget is performed under the illumination of Chinese lanterns, a sneak peek into the meeting of cultures. This work was commissioned for a hotel back in 1972. Five years earlier in 1967, Khaw Sia did a gouache on paper work Untitled (Kampong Spirit), 21cm x 152cm, which also had joget dancers under Chinese lanterns. This is documented in a publication entitled Artists Imagine A Nation published by the Institute of Contemporary Arts, Lasalle College of Fine Arts, Singapore, on the occasion of the exhibition Artists Imagine A Nation: SG50. Pictures Of People And Places from the Collections of Khor Seow Chuan and Friends, February 13 to April 19, 2015.Khaw Sia is perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Haisu’s Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-32) and informal private lessons under British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Mar. 11, 2018
ORCHIDS
Est: RM15,000 - RM25,000
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The Edge Auction
Mar. 11, 2018
MALAY VILLAGE
Est: RM15,000 - RM20,000
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The Edge Auction
Nov. 12, 2017
KHAW SIA (b. 1913 - d. 1984) UNTITLED, undated, Watercolour on paper
Est: RM6,000 - RM10,000
It is said that Khaw Sia captured orchids in his paintings like no other. An avid orchid lover, Khaw Sia would travel to Taiwan, Japan and Thailand to take part in orchid exhibitions and symposiums. He even held solo exhibitions in watercolours dedicated just to orchids. Despite Khaw Sia being one of the most versatile among the pioneer artists, it is for the orchids that he is dubbed the Orchid King of Malaysian Art. Here, one gets a 3-in-1 package of the widely hybridized cattleya, the dendrobium and the vanda, all complete with Khaw Sia’s trademark dewdrops on the long curling leaves.Khaw Sia is perhaps the best trained among the pioneers, with tutelage at Liu Hai-su’s Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-32) and informal private lessons under British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933). Khaw Sia settled in Penang in 1937 and briefly in Hong Kong. He held his first solo in Penang in 1955 and was given a posthumous Retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. His standard was impeccable, as his works were accepted by reputable exhibitions such as the Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Apr. 23, 2017
KHAW SIA (b. 1913 - d. 1984) UNTITLED, undated, Watercolour on paper
Est: RM7,000 - RM10,000
For one trained in art in China, at the great Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai (1925-32), no less and informal private lessons by the great British-Scottish watercolourist Sir William Russel Flint (1880-1969) in London (1933), Khaw Sia was indeed hugely versatile. But such was his proficiency with painting orchids, which he knew every bud and stamen, he had become synonymous with the flowers, so much so that he had been dubbed the Orchid King. He took it up after orchid-themed trips to Thailand, Taiwan and Japan in 1961. He also began cultivating, with great success, the longer-lasting flowers. He even had solos dedicated to orchids alone, in 1966, 1976 and 1977. Among the species painted here are the Cattleya and Vanda.The standard of his watercolours was high, as his works were accepted by Le Salon Paris in 1956, the Royal Institute Galleries Summer Salon in London in 1957, and for the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958. He was honoured with a posthumous Retrospective in 1998 by the Penang State Art Gallery. In 1937, he settled in Penang where he held his first solo in 1955.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Mar. 05, 2017
WASHING BY THE RIVER
Est: RM6,000 - RM9,000
Painting with frame
The Edge Auction
Mar. 05, 2017
ORCHIDS & DEWDROPS
Est: RM8,000 - RM10,000
Painting with frame
The Edge Auction
Nov. 06, 2016
KHAW SIA (b. 1913 - d. 1984) Bali Padi Field, 1982, Acrylic on canvas
Est: RM16,000 - RM26,000
Khaw Sia first went to Bali, Indonesia, in 1954, after the much-ballyhooed 1952 field trip to Bali by the Singaporean Big Four, namely Cheong Soo-Pieng, Chen Wen-hsi, Chen Chong Swee and Liu Kang. This work, with Mount Agong in the backdrop, is dated 1982, and it is not certain if the flamboyant artist did it from memory or had visited the place again before the work. Khaw Sia’s first solo in Penang, on his coming-over to Malaya in 1937, was of Balinese women and landscape. Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-32, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a post-humous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works wer accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Nov. 06, 2016
KHAW SIA (b. 1913 - d. 1984) Orchids, undated, Watercolour on paper
Est: RM8,000 - RM12,000
Khaw Sia was an avid orchid breeder-cultivator and a member of the American Orchid Society, and travelled extensively to Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia to learn of new and different species and to attend orchid conventions. Naturally, orchids became of his favourite subjects, and he had developed his trademark realist style of dewdrops on the orchid petals. Indeed, he had had solos exclusively on orchid still-lifes in 1966, 1976 and 1977, all in Penang. As it is a specialized field, it would have been most informative had he named the species when he painted them, especially when it was difficult to depict.Trained at the Sin Hwa Art Academy in Shanghai in 1925-32, Khaw Sia came under the informal coaching of Sir Russel Flint in London in 1933. He was given a post-humous retrospective by the Penang State Art Gallery in 1998. As indication of his expertise and stature, his works wer accepted by the Le Salon Paris in 1956, Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and National Society Exhibition in London in 1958.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
Jun. 26, 2016
KHAW SIA (B. China, 1913-1984) Brasso Yellowhammer
Est: RM5,000 - RM8,000
Inscribed in Chinese and signed “Khaw Sia” with seal of the artist on lower right
KLAS Art Auction
Oct. 04, 2015
KHAW SIA (b. 1913 - d. 1984) Still Life With Kicap, c.1940s, Watercolour on paper
Est: RM6,000 - RM10,000
In this vivid still life composition, the artist explores the relationship between forms and light, rendered with deft strokes in warm tropical colours. Auspicious fruits which consists of a pineapple and oranges are placed in the center of the painting amidst local vegetables, a jar and a bottle of soy sauce. The Chinese pronunciation of pineapple “wong lai” means luck has arrived and is a symbol of wealth, while oranges are a symbol of abundant happiness. Khaw Sia was perhaps the most flamboyant of the pioneer artists, accessorised in scarf, bow tie, smoking pipe et al. He had his early art tutelage at Sin Hwa Academy in Shanghai, graduating in 1932. In 1933, he took informal private classes under the great British watercolour painter Sir Russell Flint in London. He migrated from China to settle in Penang in 1937 and held his first solo there in 1955. His watercolours were already of such impeccable quality that they were accepted by the prestigious Le Salon Paris in 1956, the 14th Summer Salon at Royal Institute Galleries in London in 1957, and the 25th National Society Exhibition in London in 1958. The Penang State Art Gallery honoured him with a posthumous Retrospective in 1998. REFERENCE Penang Artists 1920s-1990s , The Art Gallery Penang, editions: 1990 and 1992. Pioneers of Malaysian Art , The Art Gallery, 1994.
Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers
May. 31, 2015
KHAW SIA (Malaysian, 1913-1984) New Year Feast
Est: $50,000 - $60,000
KHAW SIA (Malaysian, 1913-1984) New Year Feast watercolour on paper 38.5 x 67 cm. (15 3/8 x 26 3/8 in.)
Christie's