The artwork titled “Peony,” created by the renowned artist Qi Baishi in 1956, belongs to the Ink and Wash Painting movement and falls under the genre of flower painting.
The artwork features a vividly rendered peony, utilizing the characteristic techniques of ink and wash painting, which is prominent in traditional Chinese art. The composition centers on the bold, red petals of the peony, accentuated by delicate yellow highlights that evoke the inner contours and details of the flower. Surrounding the central bloom are expressive brushstrokes creating the impression of leaves, rendered in varying shades of blue-green. The simplicity and fluidity of the brushwork evoke a sense of elegance and natural beauty, reflecting the artist’s mastery in capturing the essence of the subject with minimal yet impactful strokes. The background is kept minimal, allowing the vivid colors and strokes of the peony to dominate the visual field. The artwork also includes Chinese calligraphy on the left, enhancing its traditional aesthetic and cultural significance.
