Artwork Description

Title: Flowers
Artist: Mo Xiong
Date: n.d.
Medium: Ink and watercolor on paper mounted on cardboard
Dimensions: 19.7 x 19.7 in (50 x 50 cm)

Artwork Identification
This richly layered floral still life bursts with energy and motion. Dominated by warm ochre and terracotta tones, the composition centers on a dark green vase overflowing with red, purple, and ivory blossoms, accompanied by bold splashes of yellow and white. The piece is anchored by a minimalist white tabletop featuring two pink cherries, subtly echoing the florals above.

Artistic Style and Influences
Mo Xiong employs Western watercolor and ink techniques with spontaneous flair, using splatter, dabbing, and loose strokes to build volume and texture. The earthy background contrasts with the bouquet’s vibrant hues, emphasizing the artist’s intuitive use of contrast. The dark vase, nearly monolithic in tone, serves as both a compositional and symbolic anchor—a common feature in his East-meets-West aesthetic.

Historical Context
Created as part of a square-format series, this work exemplifies Mo Xiong’s exploration of contemporary floral motifs through a cross-cultural lens. These floral compositions not only celebrate natural beauty but also convey an evolving narrative of modern Chinese art engaging with global styles.

Provenance
Provenance documentation can be provided upon contact.

Condition and Conservation
The artwork is in very good condition. Pigments remain vivid, with no signs of discoloration or physical wear on the mounting.

Artistic Significance
This piece encapsulates Mo Xiong’s refined ability to blend precision and abandon. By combining gestural abstraction with symbolic forms, he breathes life into an age-old subject—the floral still life—rendering it fresh and emotionally resonant. It is a compelling embodiment of his contribution to contemporary Chinese painting.