Flowers and Butterflies 1700 - 1749

Ma Quan painted “Flowers and Butterflies” using ink and color on paper sometime between 1736 and 1795. Ma Quan, born into a prominent family during the Qing dynasty, served as a court painter. His art reflects the cultural values and aesthetic preferences of the imperial court. During this time, the Qing dynasty saw a rigid social hierarchy, influencing the art produced. The painting presents a natural world, but it is one carefully curated, presenting symbols of wealth and status. Butterflies and flowers are not simply decorative; they speak to themes of transformation and beauty which were highly prized. Notice how the detailed brushwork captures the delicate wings of the butterflies and the soft petals of the flowers, conveying a sense of lightness and movement. Ma Quan's work invites us to reflect on our own relationship with nature and how we find beauty and meaning in the world around us. It speaks to a desire for harmony and balance.