Here a flower-and-bird scene take center stage in a traditional wall scroll, made for close, quiet looking. No wonder painters loved this subject; in this scroll it effortlessly carries everything. You'll notice peony, vase and scholar's studio woven through the composition, giving the eye somewhere to wander.
As a flower-and-bird painting it keeps easy company with far older works, without ever feeling derivative. People who collect this genre will read the meaning at once — the peony stands for prosperity and honor — it was the flower of imperial gardens. Negative space does half the work — the empty silk around peony lets the subject breathe. On silk the colors settle into a soft, matte depth that flatters the subject.
All it needs is wall space and reasonable light — it handles the atmosphere by itself. Gift-wise, it is a safe delight for collectors of Chinese art, new or seasoned. It is a fine example of peony and vase Chinese painting, the kind of piece that grows on you.
