Natural Picture 1871 - 1933

This ink tablet, crafted by Jian Guzhai, presents us with a powerful symbol: the dragon. A motif deeply embedded in Chinese culture, it traditionally embodies potent and primal forces, holding sway over water, rain, and even cosmic balance. Here, the dragon coils around the tablet's surface, its sinuous form echoing similar representations across millennia, from ancient bronzes to imperial robes. Consider, however, its transformation: from a symbol of imperial authority to a more ambiguous figure, reflecting shifting societal dynamics. Its presence evokes a primordial energy, tapping into our collective memory, arousing a sense of awe and reverence, engaging with the subconscious. The dragon, through its enduring presence, reminds us of culture's cyclical nature. It demonstrates how symbols resurface, adapt, and acquire new meanings across time, weaving an intricate tapestry of human expression.