Gladioli

Lin Fengmian Chinese

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The vibrant colors and abstraction of Gladioli suggest a Fauvist inspiration, but the translucent color washes that define the blossoms recall the traditional "boneless" technique of painting flowers without outline and the thrusting strokes of the leaves and the more methodically shaped petals reveal a calligraphic discipline not seen in the works of Matisse or other European artists. Lin's vision of flowers is charged with eruptive energy rather than domestic beauty.

Gladioli, Lin Fengmian (Chinese, 1900–1991), Hanging scroll; ink and color on paper, China

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