The artwork, entitled “Lamp,” is a creation of the artist Qi Baishi, dated 1944. It belongs to the art movement of ink and wash painting and falls within the genre of still life.
In the artwork, Qi Baishi masterfully utilizes ink and wash techniques to depict a delicate, minimalist scene. At the center of the composition is a simple lamp, rendered with an elegant economy of brushstrokes. The ink forms the outline and structure of the lamp, with subtle gradations hinting at the play of light and shadow. Adjacent to the lamp is a small insect, perhaps a moth, which adds a touch of life to the stillness of the composition. The background is rendered in a pale wash, providing a gentle contrast to the bolder strokes of the lamp and insect. On the right side of the artwork, Chinese calligraphy is inscribed, contributing to the overall aesthetic and cultural context of the piece. The composition embodies Qi Baishi’s distinctive style, marked by a harmonious balance of simplicity and elegance.
