Herbaceous Peony 1823 - 1886

Hu Yuan painted this Herbaceous Peony fan with ink and color on paper in the 19th century. Traditional painting tools like brushes and inkstones were used to create this elegant design on a functional object. The layered brushstrokes bring life to the peony, contrasting with the flat color and the radiating lines that structure the fan. The paper's absorbency allows the ink to bloom, creating soft edges and subtle gradations of tone. Calligraphy complements the composition, integrating text and image. The creation of a fan involves skilled craftsmanship, from preparing the paper to constructing the bamboo frame. These were often made in a workshop setting, requiring division of labor. Painting adds another layer of aesthetic and intellectual value, reflecting the artist's personal expression, but also their social status. Paying attention to the materials and processes involved encourages us to value the artistry of everyday objects, challenging the traditional hierarchy between art and craft.