Branch of blossoming plum
Painting for a friend, Xiang Shengmo chose to adorn the surface of this fan with an image of blossoming plum, a motif rich in symbolism for scholars in premodern China. As the first flower to emerge in the chill of early spring, the plum is seen as brave and steadfast in the face of challenging conditions, a trait with which scholars wished to identify—especially in times of political turmoil. More than just a pretty picture, this fan would have been appreciated by its recipient as a compliment regarding his character.
Artwork Details
- 明/清 項聖謨 梅枝圖 摺扇
- Title: Branch of blossoming plum
- Artist: Xiang Shengmo (Chinese, 1597–1658)
- Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
- Culture: China
- Medium: Folding fan mounted as an album leaf; ink on gold paper
- Dimensions: 6 1/2 x 20 in. (16.5 x 50.8 cm)
- Classification: Paintings
- Credit Line: John Stewart Kennedy Fund, 1913
- Object Number: 13.100.55
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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Xiang Shengmo (Chinese, 1597–1658)
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Accession Number: 2001.59
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