Artwork Description

Title: Cold days 疎 Lintu
Artist: Shiqiang Xie
Date: Undated
Medium: Ink and color on paper
Dimensions: 45 × 65 cm (17.7 × 25.6 in)

1. Artwork Identification
Cold days 疎 Lintu by Shiqiang Xie is an ink and color painting on paper measuring 45 × 65 cm. The artwork portrays a tranquil rural setting with trees in full foliage, rolling landforms, and traditional old houses, creating a harmonious balance between nature and human habitation. The brushwork is delicate yet expressive, conveying a sense of stillness and subtle vibrancy.

2. Artistic Style and Influences
The painting reflects the aesthetics of traditional Chinese landscape painting (shan shui), characterized by its poetic integration of architecture within natural scenery. The use of ink washes and light color tones demonstrates an influence from classical literati painting, emphasizing mood and atmosphere over strict realism. The artist’s choice to depict trees with abundant leaves during a cold season suggests a conceptual interpretation rather than a literal one, aligning with the philosophical underpinnings of Chinese painting traditions.

3. Historical Context
Chinese landscape painting has historically served as a spiritual and philosophical retreat, offering viewers a contemplative escape from worldly concerns. In this context, Shiqiang Xie’s work resonates with the enduring cultural value placed on nature as a source of harmony and resilience. The theme of “cold days” juxtaposed with flourishing foliage may allude to perseverance and vitality amidst life’s adversities—a motif common in Song and Yuan dynasty landscapes, reinterpreted here with modern sensibility.

4. Provenance and Authenticity
Please contact the gallery directly for detailed provenance information and authentication documentation.

5. Condition and Conservation
The painting appears to be in good overall condition with no visible tears, creases, or discoloration. Minor wear consistent with age may be present along the edges. No significant restoration is evident. A professional conservation review is recommended for long-term preservation.

6. Artistic Significance
This work is notable for its fusion of traditional Chinese techniques with a subtle contemporary approach, making it a strong example of how modern Chinese artists sustain and reinterpret cultural heritage. Its poetic tone and serene imagery underscore themes of endurance, harmony, and seasonal transition, offering both visual beauty and philosophical depth.