Ink Lotus, Hanging Scroll
Bian Shoumin
Qing Dynasty
- MEDIUM:Ink on paper
- FORMATS:Hanging Scroll
- DIMENSIONS:Height 115.0 cm; Width 37.5 cm
Introduction
This painting was created by Bian Shoumin at the age of 61 in his hometown Huai’an, at his studio named “Weijian Shuwu” (Reed Grove Study). It depicts three lotus stems rendered in bold splash-ink technique, presenting a simple composition with free and graceful brushwork and rich variations in ink tones.
At the top of the painting is a poem that reads:
“Not portraying floral beauty, but capturing fragrance instead,
Mist-like ink hues blend with vast waves ahead.
No need for rouge or painted face,
To stir words like those of the Six Gentlemen’s grace.”
In his later years, Bian lived a reclusive life amidst the landscapes of his homeland, detached from worldly distractions. The poem reflects his personal philosophy and contemplation, much like the lotus flowers in the painting—quiet, unassuming, subtly nestled among the leaves, embodying peace and serenity.
This work was successively authenticated and collected by Qing dynasty connoisseur Fang Junyi, late Qing to early Republican calligrapher and painter Shao Songnian, and prominent Republican collector Pang Laichen. Later, it was acquired by the prominent modern collector Qian Jingtang.
