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Insects and Plants

Qi Baishi Chinese
dated 1943
Not on view
Throughout his life, Qi Baishi drew inspiration from the objects of everyday existence, particularly the humble flowers, vegetables, and creatures that he observed as a boy. This series of album leaves matches specific insects and objects in a visual chronicle of the seasonal markers of rural life. Juxtaposing insects drawn in an extremely meticulous fine-line style with flowers and vegetables executed in a colorful, freely sketched manner, Qi created a technical tour de force that he proudly entitled: "What I am capable of!"

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 清/現代　齊白石　草蟲圖　冊
  • Title: Insects and Plants
  • Artist: Qi Baishi (Chinese, 1864–1957)
  • Date: dated 1943
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Album of twelve leaves; ink on paper
  • Dimensions: 10 1/8 x 13 1/2 in. (25.7 x 34.3 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Gift of Robert Hatfield Ellsworth, in memory of La Ferne Hatfield Ellsworth, 1986
  • Object Number: 1986.267.237a–l
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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Windblown Orchids, Qi Baishi Chinese, Hanging scroll; ink and pale color on paper, China
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Chicks, Qi Baishi Chinese, Hanging scroll; ink wash on paper, China
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Birds and Flowers of the Four Seasons, Qi Baishi Chinese, Four framed hanging scrolls; ink and color on paper, China
Birds and Flowers of the Four Seasons
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Mandarin orange, Qi Baishi Chinese, Framed album leaf; ink on paper, China
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