How do we know spring has arrived? The most sensetive souls among us are probablly the plants. After a long winter slumber underground, green buds begin to emerge, and the winter jasmine (whose Chinese name signifies "flower that welcomes spring") bursts into vibrant yellow bloom despite the lingering chill. Returning robins and nightingales add their cheerful chorus to nature's awakening symphony. Spring's arrival is marked by these subtle yet unmistakable signs.
For Chinese artists, how do they celebrate the season of renewal? Through their artistic eyes, what do they see in this season full of life and hope? In this exhibition we will explore two distinct perspectives on spring through two sets of paintings: the first set focuses on nature’s rebirth, featuring beloved subjects in Chinese art—plants and birds. The other set depicts springtime activities enjoyed by the leisure and literati classes of centuries past.
Full images of these paintings can be viewed by clicking on the image or on the painting title below the image.
I. Nature
First, we encounter "A Breath of Spring" by the artist Zou Fulei (active 14th century). A vigorous old plum tree, its branches reaching skyward with newly sprouted shoots, embodies the awakening and irrepressible force of life. This quiet yet powerful image resonates like the first rumble of distant spring thunder, a clear and unmistakable declaration: spring has arrived.
Section of A breath of Spring by Zhou Fulei, Yuan dynasty (1271-1368)
In contrast, Zhao Ji, Emperor Huizong of Song (1082 -1135) captures spring's essence with quiet elegance. In his painting Pigeon on a Peach Branch, a plump, white-bellied green pigeon sits contentedly on a cherry branch, a few delicate pink blossoms scattered across the painting. The stillness of the scene and the soft pastel colours evoke a sense of peace and elegence.
Pigeon on a Peach Branch by Zhao Ji, Emperor Huizong of Song, Song dynasty (960-1279)
For the Buddhist monk Muxi (1225-1270), the fleeting silhouette of a swallow skimming past a weeping willow suffices as a sign of spring's arrival. Contemplating the swallow's grace and lightness, and the gently swaying willow branches, one can almost feel the spring breeze rustling through the painting.
Willow and Swallow by Mu Xi, Song dynasty (960-1279)
II. People
Spring's vibrant energy naturally draws people outdoors. The Tang dynasty court painter Zhang Xuan depicts the spring outing of Lady Guoguo and her entourage in 752 AD. The original painting is lost, but we can see a copy made by Zhao Ji, Emperor Huizong of Song here. Dressed in vibrant colours, the procession moves leisurely through the landscape. Their leisurely expressions and the graceful movements of their fine horses create a sense of carefree pleasure perfectly suited to a spring day.
(Note: Lady Guoguo and Lady Qinguo, riding side-by-side on light yellow horses, were sisters of the celebrated imperial concubine, Yang Guifei.)
Section of Lady Guoguo’s Spring outing by Zhao Ji, Emperor Huizong of Song, Song dynasty (960-1279)
Another painting, Eight Gentlemen on a Spring Outing by Zhao Yan (d.923) offers a different perspective on springtime festivities. Eight gentlemen, possibly members of the royal family, gallop through an imperial courtyard. However, a touch of drama is introduced as one rider struggles to control his reluctant steed, adding a playful element to the otherwise relaxed and lively scene.
Section of Eight gentlemen on a spring outing by Zhao Yan, Five dynasties and Ten kingdoms (907-979)
Finally, we see the literati enjoying the season's beauty in Spring Montains by Qiu Ying (1494 - 1552). In a secluded mountain setting, two eminent scholars share tea on the verdant grass, surrounded by cherry blossoms and willows. Their nearby study stands quietly, a testament to the allure of nature's embrace.
Section of Spring Montains by Qiu Ying, Ming dynasty (1368-1644)
Taking inspiration from these paintings, why not go on a spring outing and experience the joy of spring after a long winter indoors?
Hope you enjoyed this brief guided tour of the paintings. Feel free to stroll through more paintings on spring below.
