Narcissus and Orchid
Chen Hengke's studies in Japan gave him the distance from his own tradition that only the modern period could provide, and from this vantage he reaffirmed a belief in the enduring vitality of Chinese calligraphy and painting. His composition of fragrant flowers recalls the generations of painters from Wu Changshi back through Li Futang (act. ca. 1711–62), Hua Yen (1682–ca. 1765) and Chen Chun (1483–1544), who preceded him. His inscription touches gently upon the theme of China's beloved rivers, the Xiao and Xiang and the river Luo.
Artwork Details
- 清/現代 陳衡恪 水仙幽蘭圖 摺扇
- Title: Narcissus and Orchid
- Artist: Chen Hengke (Chinese, 1876–1923)
- Date: dated 1920
- Culture: China
- Medium: Folding fan mounted as an album leaf; ink and color on alum paper
- Dimensions: 7 7/8 x 21 2/3 in. (20.0 x 55.0 cm)
- Classification: Paintings
- Credit Line: Gift of Robert Hatfield Ellsworth, in memory of La Ferne Hatfield Ellsworth, 1986
- Object Number: 1986.267.105
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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Chen Hengke
likely 1923
Chen Hengke
early 20th century
Chen Hengke
dated 1920
Chen Hengke
early 20th century
Chen Hengke
early 20th century
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