Narcissus Possibly 1368 - 1644

Wang Guxiang painted this Narcissus fan during the Ming Dynasty with ink on paper. The fan is dominated by linear arrangements of dark ink against the warm ground of the paper, evoking a sense of understated elegance. Wang Guxiang uses the curved format of the fan to frame and emphasize the organic forms of the narcissus, which bend and sway in a delicate rhythm. Look closely at how the stems and leaves extend from a central point, creating a sense of depth and movement. The contrast between the precise lines of the flowers and the more fluid brushstrokes of the foliage adds a dynamic tension. This interplay suggests that the artist is examining the relationship between controlled representation and natural spontaneity. The texture of the paper subtly influences the ink, creating variations in tone and density, where thin washes of ink let the texture of the paper peek through and add to the subtle, visual experience. The seal and inscription on the left serve as a counterpoint to the floral arrangement, balancing the composition. Ultimately, the painting is a subtle, understated study of form and texture.