Untitled

The loose composition and concise usage of lines and ink depict floral stems in a pot, two birds and a smaller jar. This simple painting could be described as a Qinggong 清供painting in the flower-and-bird genre of traditional Chinese ink art. Qinggong can be translated as elegant offerings, such as flowers, fruits, handicrafts, scholar stones and accoutrements, which are meant to bring enjoyment and inspiration to the viewers. Qinggong painting was introduced by literati artists around the time of the Northern Song dynasty (960–1127). The inscription on the left indicates the painting was produced in early winter, thus the withered flowers. In contrast, the animated birds inject liveliness to the scene.

Wu Yueshi is well known for his xieyi style (literally writing ideas or emotions). He studied under prominent ink artist Wang Zhujiu (1900-1966) who was a student of Master Qi Baishi (1864-1957), and Dong Shouping (1904-1997). With profound knowledge of Chinese culture and painting theory, he is also an expert of authenticating paintings as well.

A&L, June 2023