Flowers and Birds
Chun Lei
Artwork Details
Artwork Description
Title: Flowers and Birds
Artist: Chun Lei
Date: n.d.
Medium: Ink and color on paper
Dimensions: 54.3 × 27.2 in (138 × 69 cm)
1. Artwork Identification
In this large vertical composition, Chun Lei presents a vibrant natural scene featuring pink blossoms, broad banana leaves, and two delicately painted birds in mid-flight. The artist’s masterful brushwork merges soft ink washes with crisp, colorful detail, creating a graceful balance of movement and stillness.
2. Artistic Style and Influences
The painting reflects the expressive xieyi (寫意) tradition, where intuitive brushstrokes and vibrant color are employed to capture the essence rather than the literal form of the subject. Chun Lei’s choice of color—particularly the interplay between vivid pinks, deep greens, and earthy oranges—demonstrates an affinity for modern interpretations of classical flower-and-bird motifs, a celebrated genre in Chinese painting.
3. Historical Context
The flower-and-bird theme (花鸟画) is deeply rooted in Chinese art history, representing seasonal beauty, harmony with nature, and auspicious meanings. Here, the birds in flight symbolize freedom and vitality, while the lush banana leaves and blossoms evoke tropical abundance and poetic elegance.
4. Provenance
Provenance documentation can be provided upon contact.
5. Condition and Conservation
The artwork is in very good condition. The paper is well-preserved, and the pigments remain strong and luminous. No significant creasing, staining, or damage is visible.
6. Artistic Significance
Flowers and Birds exemplifies Chun Lei’s poetic vision and mastery of traditional brush techniques infused with modern sensibilities. This work is a striking expression of the enduring flower-and-bird tradition, reimagined with bold color harmonies and a contemporary vitality.