Plum blossoms

Plum trees and plum blossoms carry a rich spiritual symbolism in Chinese cultural and artistic traditions, representing integrity, perseverance, courage and other moral qualities. Because it flowers in the last stage of winter and early spring, it also embodies the anticipation of spring. Drawing plum blossoms used to be a folk activity for many people, especially those living in the northern region where winters are long.

The ongoing exhibition, Inquiring About the Message of Plum Blossoms, at the National Art Museum of China shows how great ink artists throughout history have depicted the plum trees and plum blossoms, including Jin Nong, a member of the Eight Eccentric Painters of Yangzhou who was active in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), and Xu Gu, from the 19th century.

The paintings are in the collection of the National Art Museum of China and are on display until Wednesday.

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