Washing the White Elephant 1644 - 1711

Chen Zi created "Washing the White Elephant" using ink on paper during the Qing Dynasty. The socio-political context of the time included the rule of the Manchu, whose cultural heritage differed from that of the Han Chinese. Here, Chen Zi integrates Buddhist symbolism with personal and cultural critique. In Buddhism, the white elephant is revered and symbolizes purity and wisdom. However, the act of washing it can be interpreted as an attempt to purify something already sacred, or perhaps a commentary on society’s efforts to cleanse or alter fundamental truths. The soft, understated brushwork gives the scene a dreamlike quality. This evokes a sense of introspection and contemplation, asking viewers to consider the implications of interfering with inherent values or identities. Ultimately, this piece reflects the artist's own negotiation of cultural identity and values, inviting us to reflect on the complexities of cultural change and the preservation of personal and collective identity.