Plum Blossoms
| Support Type: | Paper |
| Paint Type: | Ink |
| Current Location: | Tsinghua University Art Museum |
| Location History: | Painted during the Qing dynasty. It was certified as the Nation's first class collection and is permanently housed in the Tsinghua university art museum |
The above artwork titled 'Plum Blossoms' seems to be a very simple portrayal of nature scenic beauty. However, when examined carefully it resonates with the human emotions and qualities. The subject, plum blossom tree itself could be considered a symbolic representation of resilience and growth. The artist, Wang Shishen has depicted the tree in a cold, harsh winter with the bold inkstrokes of trunk and light circling of the plum flowers. The 'Z' shape of the tree shows its twist and turns, hinting at the difficulties to bloom during heavy snow. The standing out of the single plum tree brings the viewer attention to its beauty hidden in its subtle nature. In Chinese art, natural elements hold moral values and inspiration for life which is also described through this painting.