It is an unlikely juxtaposition to encounter artworks from the Liao Dynasty of China (907 – 1125) residing elegantly in proximity to a painting created in 2018 by a Northwest artist and less likely to encounter the pair of them in a gallery on Mercer Island.

Clarke & Clarke Art + Artifacts recently announced they have a Gold Gilt over Bronze, Funerary Mask of a female Qidan Noblewoman. They also recently discovered the Northwest abstract painter, Sharon Carr.

“The two reside in proximity as if they were meant for each other,” said Ginny Clarke, one of the two Clarke & Clarke founders. “Sharon’s use of cold wax and oils range from highly dramatic boldness to soothing serene washes of monocramatic mellowness. The celedon greens are reminiscent of the centuries old traditions of elegant porcelains created in shades of pale seafoam greens to rich velvety leaf green colors. Jade comes to mind as one gazes upon the deeper segments of the artwork. Her works, as she states, ‘sing with color’. This 36 by 36 work is playfully titled ‘The Tweets I Love are Sung in the Trees’.”

Private viewings and discussions regarding the Bronze Mask are offered by appointment in addition to opportunities at the Mercer Island Art Walk.

Photos of the artwork courtesy of Clarke Clarke Art + Artifacts