Bird and Flower c. 18th century

Zhang Yu made this ink-on-paper painting, titled "Bird and Flower," in China during the late 18th century. The literati of Zhang's time were increasingly interested in artistic representations of the natural world. These paintings functioned as a form of cultural capital. They were collected and displayed by the wealthy, educated elite as symbols of taste and refinement. At the same time, we should remember that the patronage system had a profound influence on artistic production. Artists often had to cater to the aesthetic preferences and social expectations of their patrons, which had an impact on artistic expression. To gain a deeper understanding of this artwork and the period in which it was made, research into the prevailing social and economic conditions, the art market, and the influence of patronage is very valuable. These resources can help us uncover the complex ways in which the art world has been shaped.