Orchid and Bamboo by Ma Shouzhen

Orchid and Bamboo 1680

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drawing, paper, ink-on-paper, hanging-scroll, ink

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drawing

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asian-art

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landscape

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figuration

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paper

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ink-on-paper

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hanging-scroll

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ink

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line

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calligraphy

Dimensions: 33 1/16 x 9 5/8 in. (83.98 x 24.45 cm) (image)105 5/16 x 17 5/8 in. (267.49 x 44.77 cm) (without roller)

Copyright: Public Domain

Editor: This hanging scroll, "Orchid and Bamboo" by Ma Shouzhen, was created around 1680 using ink on paper. I'm immediately drawn to the way the artist uses sparse lines to evoke a sense of stillness. What stands out to you in this piece? Curator: The starkness itself is a potent symbol. Both orchids and bamboo, especially rendered in ink, carry layers of cultural meaning. Bamboo often signifies resilience and uprightness, while orchids are associated with elegance and refinement. Notice how the artist has intertwined these images with calligraphic script, almost braiding text and image together into a harmonious whole. What do you think this juxtaposition might suggest? Editor: I hadn't thought of that specific relationship between the script and image... maybe it's meant to suggest that writing, like nature, is a form of cultivated expression? Curator: Precisely. Consider the seals, too – small red punctuations throughout the scroll. These aren’t merely decorative; they are akin to signatures, stamping the work with the artist's identity and artistic lineage. These symbolic imprints help situate the viewer in the artist's historical context. How might Ma Shouzhen’s identity as a female artist in 17th century China shape our reading of these particular symbols? Editor: That's an important point! The strength of the bamboo might represent not only resilience in general, but also Ma Shouzhen's personal determination as a woman artist. It’s inspiring to consider these layers of meaning embedded in such a seemingly simple composition. Curator: Indeed. What appears minimalist is, in fact, profoundly rich in symbolism and cultural memory. This is the beautiful complexity of art! Editor: I see so much more now. I appreciate how you’ve illuminated the symbolic and historical weight within the work!

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