It is said that studying poetry emphasizes gaining a broad knowledge of the names of birds, beasts, grasses, and trees.

The study of painting is no different from this. One learns the names to grasp their form and inner nature. Did not the chanting and singing of the ancient poets serve as the "draft sketches" fenben: preparatory sketches or models used by artists long before the masters Xu and Huang original: "Xu Huang" (徐黃), referring to Xu Xi and Huang Quan, the two foundational masters of bird-and-flower painting in the 10th century established their styles?

Inscribed by Wang Zhu (style name Xiaoshui) on the full moon of the eighth month of the Xinsi year [1701].

Written by his son Wolai in the Xiafang Pavilion.

Simple Exposition on Painting Flowers and Birds from the Qingzai Studio

Origins and Lineage of Painting Methods Painting Manual: Flowers

The Xuanhe Painting Manual The Xuanhe Huapu, an imperial catalog of the Song Dynasty collection commissioned by Emperor Huizong argues that flowers and trees possess the essence of the Five Elements and receive the vital breath qi: the circulating life force in all living things of Heaven and Earth. As the forces of Yin and Yang exhale, the plants bloom in glory; as they inhale, they wither and withdraw. Thus, the flourishing beauty seen among the hundreds of grasses and trees is beyond counting.

Their various forms and colors, though not consciously designed by the Creator, nonetheless decorate the "Great Transformation" original: "Dahua" (大化), a term for the natural processes of the universe and bring civilization to the world. They provide a means to observe the cosmic signs xiang: meaningful patterns or images in nature and harmonize the vital breath.

Therefore, poets use these plants as vehicles for metaphors and inspiration original: "Bi Xing" (比興), the traditional modes of expression in the Classic of Poetry. Consequently, the art of painting and the art of poetry serve as inner and outer reflections of one another. Even a slender branch or a small calyx can be called beautiful among the herbaceous plants. However, for a grand and comprehensive view, the woody flowers are considered primary. Among these: the peony achieves opulence and beauty; the crabapple achieves an enchanting charm; the plum blossom achieves purity; the apricot blossom achieves abundance; the peach is lush, and the plum is plain. The mountain...