Minneapolis Institute of Art

Lotus

Qi Baishi

Date

early 20th century

Medium

Ink and color on paper

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Qi Baishi, one of modern China’s most celebrated painters, was renowned for transforming everyday subjects into vivid, poetic imagery. This fan painting of a lotus captures his bold style: broad, expressive ink washes form dark leaves, while brilliant red blossoms burst forth. The contrast between dynamic brushwork and luminous color is a perfect example of Qi’s unique fusion of tradition and innovation. Rooted in literati (scholar-artist) painting yet infused with a fresh, relaxed spirit, his work embodies both simplicity and profound insight. In this fan, the lotus—long a symbol of purity—becomes a striking emblem of renewal, resilience, and artistic vitality. Asia

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