Magpies with Plum Blossom, 17th century
Zhang Fengexpand_more
Ink and color on silkexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 96.97.31
Not on Viewexpand_more
Birds could convey good wishes and greetings through the puns on their names, which conjure up verbal associations with lucky ideas. Xique (magpie), for instance, is an auspicious bird whose caw heralds the approach of good fortune. Its name in Chinese forms a pun on the word xie ("happiness" and "joy."). Together with the plum blossom, a flower blooming in late winter and representing renewal and heralding spring, the composition expresses a good wish: "Magpies herald the arrival of the spring" (xique baochun).
Details
- Title
- Magpies with Plum Blossom
- Artist Life
- active 1628-after 1668
- Role
- Maker
- Accession Number
- 96.97.31
- Curator Approved
This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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