White Plum Blossoms

In Chinese tradition, plum blossom is recognised for embodying the noble qualities of the Confucian gentleman-scholar, enduring the harsh winter months and heralding the arrival of spring. Alongside the orchid, chrysanthemum and bamboo, it is known as one of the Four Gentlemen; the plum, pine and bamboo are also collectively known as the Three Friends of Winter in recognition of their strength in the face of adversity. With strong, fluid, flowing brushstrokes, Xu Beihong renders the blossoms and tree trunk in an expressive, classical manner. The depiction of this epitome of the Chinese natural tradition conveys the artist's love and longing for his country at a time of war.