The Sound of the Flute 

Xu Beihong made this painting, "The Sound of the Flute," employing an oil on canvas technique, a style he mastered during his education in Europe. Xu's art often served as a commentary on the social structures of his time, reflecting his progressive stance and critique of artistic institutions. Created during a period of significant social upheaval in China, Xu's art sought to engage with contemporary issues and challenge existing norms. His commitment to realism, honed through Western academic training, allowed him to depict Chinese subjects with a fresh, engaging perspective. Understanding the context of Xu Beihong's work involves exploring the intersection of traditional Chinese art forms and Western painting techniques. Research into the socio-political climate of early 20th-century China, including the influence of Western art academies and the rise of nationalism, will give us a deeper appreciation of Xu's contribution to modern Chinese art. The meaning of art is contingent on its social and institutional context.