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清 邊壽民 墨荷蘆葉圖 冊頁|Lotus Leaves and Water Reeds by Bian Shoumin

Bian Shoumin · 1739

Bian Shoumin's 'Lotus Leaves and Water Reeds', painted in 1739, is an exquisite example of Qing dynasty ink painting, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This album leaf showcases the artist's minimalist technique and profound understanding of natural forms.

The painting invites viewers to appreciate the subtle interplay of ink and paper. Observe the delicate gradations of ink on the lotus leaves, creating a translucent, almost ethereal effect. The artist masterfully uses the unpainted white paper to evoke a sense of misty atmosphere and expansive space.

As an album leaf, this work was intended for intimate viewing and personal contemplation. Bian Shoumin's depiction of lotuses, reeds, and bamboo aligns with a long-standing tradition in Chinese art, where such subjects carry deep symbolic resonance and offer opportunities for aesthetic and philosophical reflection.

What details in this elegant composition draw your eye most?

Details

The artist, Bian Shoumin, was active through the mid-1700s.
The artist, Bian Shoumin, was active through the mid-1700s.
He was known for his delicate approach to natural subjects.
He was known for his delicate approach to natural subjects.
Look closely at the subtle ink washes on the leaves.
Look closely at the subtle ink washes on the leaves.
The unpainted paper creates a sense of space and atmosphere.
The unpainted paper creates a sense of space and atmosphere.
Transcript

This ink painting dates to 1739, Qing dynasty China. The artist, Bian Shoumin, was active through the mid-1700s. He was known for his delicate approach to natural subjects. Look closely at the subtle ink washes on the leaves. The unpainted paper creates a sense of space and atmosphere. The red seals mark the artist's work and previous owners.