Flowers

Meng Litang, as known as Meng Guanyi (19th century), is native of Yanghu, Jiangsu province. During Daoguang's reign, Meng and Song Guangbao were hired to teach painting in Guangdong, subsequently moved there permanently and became a locally renowned artist for flowers and birds. Ju Lian first studied under Ju Chao, and eventually both became students of Meng and Song; their styles inherited the essence of Yun Nantien's paintings. The development of the Lingnan School can be perceived as a direct lineage from Yun Nantien, Song Guangbao, Meng Litang, Ju Chao, Ju Lian, Gao Jianfu, Gao Qifeng, to Chen Shuren. Qi Baishi had special affection for Meng Litang and would rank his skill and achievement amongst other classical masters such as Bada Shanren, Shi Tao, Jin Nong and Li Shan, an opinion that might not be shared by the contemporary critics.