The artwork titled “Preparation,” created by the artist Qi Baishi in 1935, belongs to the art movement known as ink and wash painting and is classified within the still life genre.
In the artwork, Qi Baishi uses a delicate yet expressive approach typical of ink and wash painting. Dominated by soft, flowing brushstrokes, the composition presents a kettle resting on an orange stand, accompanied by a fan and traditional Chinese scissors. The meticulous depiction of these commonplace objects conveys a sense of everyday tranquility and simplicity. The subtle use of color and the balance of negative space emphasize the artist’s refined technique and mastery in conveying scene essence through minimalistic expression. The background, nearly untouched, enhances the viewer’s focus on the depicted objects, showcasing the zen-like precision characteristic of Qi Baishi’s work.
