Rongbaozhai Ancient Painting Collection (9) - Qing Dynasty Bird and Flower (9)

Author: Tang Hui
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1997-02-01
Features: Xi Gu had connections with other renowned painters residing in Shanghai at the time, such as Ren Boshan, Hu Gongshou, Gao Yongzhi, Gu Heyi, Wu Changshuo, and Ni Muge. He particularly maintained a close relationship with Ren Boshan, who greatly admired and revered Xi Gu's character and artistic skills. Ren Boshan once painted a portrait of Xi Gu and inscribed characters on Xi Gu's fan. In turn, Xi Gu equally admired Ren Boshan's outstanding artistic talent. In 1896, when Ren Boshan passed away, Xi Gu was devastated upon hearing the news and wept uncontrollably. He composed a couplet in his memory: "Brushwork knows no fixed rules, yet always innovates—your art reaches the pinnacle! Heaven takes such a man, who will carry on your legacy? Our path seems to be declining?"