Page from the Ten Bamboo Studio Manual of Painting and Calligraphy 1633

This page from the Ten Bamboo Studio Manual of Painting and Calligraphy, created in 1633 by Hu Zhengyan, showcases the artist's masterful skill in depicting a flowering plum tree with delicate brushstrokes. The painting, executed in ink and light colors on paper, captures the essence of the plum blossom, a symbol of resilience and beauty in Chinese art. The intricate details of the tree's gnarled branches and delicate blossoms, along with the rocks at its base, create a harmonious composition that embodies the principles of literati painting, emphasizing elegance and refined taste. This manual, a testament to Hu Zhengyan's artistry, is a valuable resource for understanding the techniques and aesthetics of Chinese painting.