Must There Be Symbolism? Chinese-Bird-&-Flower Paintings
The genre of bird-and-flower painting first came to prominence in China during the 10th century as a court tradition of large scale, sumptuously colored and richly detailed decorative works. For centuries, the Court and Literati styles (established during the Song and Ming Dynasties) have remained the most popular traditions used to capture the beauty of the birds and flowers that reside in such paintings, which are still appreciated for their charm and beauty today. Many birds and flowers are auspicious symbols in Chinese culture due to folk legends or homophones. But is there inherently symbolism within bird-and-flower paintings (花鳥畫)? With Lily Birmingham (SDCHM Treasurer, Docent Training Lead), 3rd Saturday Lecture attendees will appreciate and explore various iconic bird-and-flower paintings throughout Chinese history and find out.