Orchids -- Illustration from the Ten Bamboo Studio Manual of Calligraphy and Painting (Shizhuzhai shuhua pu) before 1703

Editor: Here we have Hu Zhengyan's "Orchids," an illustration from the Ten Bamboo Studio Manual. It feels so delicate and spontaneous. What's your take on this piece? Curator: The Manual was significant because it democratized access to art. Before, color printing was exclusive to religious texts. This manual helped make the art of painting available to a broader audience. Editor: So, it was a form of cultural dissemination? Curator: Exactly. Consider how that impacted the status of artists and the perception of art's role in society at the time. Editor: That's fascinating! I never thought about the printing process as being so impactful. Curator: It shifted artistic power. I find it interesting to consider this work as both art and a tool for art education. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about. Thanks!