White Chrysanthemums 1654

Xiang Shengmo painted White Chrysanthemums using ink and color on paper, during a period of immense social upheaval in China. Xiang Shengmo, a member of the literati class, lived through the transition from the Ming to the Qing Dynasty. His identity as a Ming loyalist profoundly shaped his artistic output, infusing it with a sense of melancholic reflection. The white chrysanthemum, traditionally a symbol of purity and reclusion, takes on a deeper meaning when viewed through the lens of Xiang’s personal history. His choice to depict the flower in such detail speaks to a longing for a return to simpler times, as well as a subtle critique of the new political order. Note how Xiang's elegant brushwork captures the delicate texture of the petals. This piece resonates with a quiet intensity, inviting us to contemplate the artist’s emotional state. The painting serves as a reminder of the intersection between personal identity, artistic expression, and political turmoil.