Artwork Description

Title: Figure
Artist: Xu Zhimin
Date: n.d.
Medium: Ink and color on paper
Dimensions: 68 × 68 cm (26.8 × 26.8 in)

1. Artwork Identification
This delicate and expressive composition by Xu Zhimin presents two elegant female figures framed by blooming peach blossoms and lush tropical foliage. The women, rendered with elongated features and intricate hairstyles adorned with floral ornaments, hold fans with poetic serenity, evoking a sense of quiet introspection.

2. Artistic Style and Influences
Xu Zhimin’s artistic language draws from traditional Chinese figure painting while incorporating a modern stylization characterized by flattened planes, elongated forms, and expressive linework. His figures often embody a dreamlike grace, blending literati aesthetics with a distinctly contemporary sense of narrative and character.

3. Historical Context
As a Chinese artist born in 1961, Xu Zhimin is part of a generation that witnessed dramatic cultural and artistic shifts in late 20th-century China. His work often reflects a nostalgic idealism, reinterpreting classical motifs through a modern lens. The emphasis on feminine beauty and floral symbolism in this piece alludes to ancient poetic themes.

4. Provenance
Provenance documentation can be provided upon contact.

5. Condition and Conservation
The artwork is in very good condition, with strong color retention and no visible signs of damage or fading. The paper remains clean and stable with only minimal handling creases.

6. Artistic Significance
Xu Zhimin’s Figure stands as a refined example of contemporary ink painting that bridges the gap between classical Chinese themes and modern expression. The painting’s lyrical composition and graceful rendering make it a compelling work that speaks to both tradition and innovation.