Preface

The manual was not yet finished. Four months after I departed, the book
was finally completed. Moreover, it begins by distinguishing the yuanliu: the historical origins and lineages of artistic styles and revealing the
secret formulas and technical models. Looking at his own preface, the previous collection
[focusing on] orchids, bamboo, plum blossoms, and chrysanthemums These four plants are known as the "Four Gentlemen" in East Asian art, representing the four seasons and human virtues. They are the foundational subjects for students of ink wash painting., had already used the methods of learning calligraphy
to learn painting. Now, this [volume] further employs the methods of learning poetry
to provide details on birds, animals, grasses, and trees. The
intent behind this is profound indeed! From my perspective: the birds, animals,
grasses, and trees [found in nature], and the birds, animals, and grasses [rendered] by the painter...