Nine Peaches and a Bird 

Ding Yanyong created this painting of peaches and a bird using ink and color on paper. The essence of the painting lies in the materials. The ink, applied with a brush, varies in tone and saturation, creating depth and texture with just a few strokes. The application is direct, with no room for error. The artist's skill is evident in the economy of means and the way the ink interacts with the absorbent paper, creating soft edges and subtle gradations. We can imagine Ding Yanyong carefully grinding the ink stick, preparing the surface, and then allowing the image to emerge from a place of quiet concentration. The calligraphic inscription, integrated into the composition, complements the painted imagery. It shows not only artistic skill, but also a deep understanding of material, process, and cultural significance. It invites a deeper contemplation of the relationship between art, craft, and the cultural values they embody.