A Thousand Variations of Painting Longevity Peaches Pine Tree -- New Edition of Chinese Painting Training Series II

Author: Yang Hongwei
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-03-01
Features: Chinese painting often carries symbolic meanings in its subjects. For example, peonies symbolize wealth, and bamboo symbolizes integrity. Peach and pine trees symbolize longevity, making them one of the most commonly used themes by painters. In a painting of peach subjects, the fruit, or peaches, should be the main focus of appreciation. Such paintings can be complete works featuring tree trunks, leaves, and peaches; they can also be branch paintings, depicting a single branch, several leaves, and one or more peaches; or even just a few peaches placed in a plate or basket, which are also very charming.
Pine trees are often found growing on mountains, with some even thriving in crevices of cliffs. They are not afraid of wind, rain, frost, or snow, remaining evergreen and enduring for thousands of years. Therefore, pine trees not only symbolize longevity but also represent resilience and strength, which are highly valued virtues in Chinese culture. This book introduces the techniques of painting pine trees in flower-and-bird painting, where the pine tree is the focal point. For this purpose, the author specifically dissects the pine needles, branches, and trunks, introducing their painting techniques and various poses one by one. Then, these three parts are combined to demonstrate their interweaving and arrangement. Finally, the artist adds inscriptions and seals to complete the work.