Plum Blossoms

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Plum Blossoms

1835

Japanese, 1783 - 1856

In East Asia, the plum has long been a symbol of rebirth, integrity, and forbearance, as its branches burst into bloom while snow still lies on the ground. The plum is closely associated with the literati tradition and the artistic grouping of pine, bamboo and plum-the so-called Three Friends of Winter. In this ink painting by a master of Japan's scholar-painter tradition, the supple brushwork and balanced composition honor the spirit of the elegant tree, which serves as a metaphor for the cultivated gentleman.

Ink on paper

94 x 8 3/4 in. (238.8 x 22.2 cm) Mount, overall

Gift of Griffith and Patricia Way in honor of William J. Rathbun, Curator of Asian Art, 1972-1999

99.58

Not currently on view

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