Bamboo c. 1675 - 1750

This is "Bamboo," a hanging scroll painted with ink on paper by Zhengxing, also known as Wuzhai. The dominant motif here is the bamboo, a potent symbol in Chinese culture representing resilience, integrity, and flexibility. This representation of bamboo echoes through time, resonating with similar depictions in other East Asian art forms. Consider the stoic bamboo of Korean Joseon dynasty paintings, or the stylized bamboo patterns adorning Japanese lacquerware. In each context, the plant persists as a symbol of steadfastness amidst adversity, mirroring the psychological fortitude sought after across cultures. The bamboo's ability to bend without breaking speaks to a deeper human desire for adaptability and emotional resilience. It becomes a visual embodiment of the subconscious yearning for inner peace, a testament to the enduring power of symbols to bridge time and cultures, resurfacing in different forms yet carrying the same ancient weight.