Artwork

Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo

Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo, by Shitao, unspecified, 1662
Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo, by Shitao, unspecified, 1662

Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Shitao. It dates from 1662 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1952.589

About this work

Overview

Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo is a painting by Shitao, created in 1662. It is a scroll on paper, featuring ink brushwork and accompanying text.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a landscape with bamboo, rocks, and flowers. The accompanying text, likely poetry or notes, is written in a column on the left side of the scroll. The combination of image and text suggests a harmonious relationship between the natural scene and the artist's thoughts or feelings.

Technique & Style

The brushwork is characterized by loose yet precise lines, with areas of plain white paper left untouched. The execution appears to be quick, yet deliberate, suggesting a spontaneous yet controlled artistic process.

History & Provenance

The painting is held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

清   鄭燮   蘭竹圖   卷|Orchids and bamboo
清 鄭燮 蘭竹圖 卷|Orchids and bamboo, Zheng Xie

Artist & collection

Portrait of Shitao

Artist

Shitao

Chinese, 1642–1707

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo?

Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo was painted by Shitao in 1662.

Where can I see Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo?

Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo?

Rocks, Orchid, and Bamboo is associated with Baroque.