Crab and Taro Leaves
Artist
Li Kuchan
(Chinese, 1899 - 1983)
Date1973
MaterialsInk on paper
DimensionsH. 22 3/4 in x W. 17 in, H. 57.8 cm x W. 43.2 cm (Image); H. 55 in x W. 25 3/4 in, H. 139.7 cm x W. 65.4 cm (Overall)
Credit LineGift of the Jack Anderson Collection
Object number1994.118
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsPainting
On View
Not on viewInscribed"Spring of 1973, Kuchan."
MarkingsKuchan (seal)
More InformationLi Kuchan excelled at quickly sketched paintings of birds and flowers, and his fast and strong brushwork is filled with calligraphic energy and expression. This freehand style painting of crab and taro leaves is done purely in ink of different tones. The body and legs of the lively crab are rendered in shades of gray in well-controlled strokes. The leaves are broadly applied in darker tones and with less even ink. The monochrome work demonstrates an important link between modern and traditional paintings of the xieyi style (sketching one’s mind). One can observe a strong influence from Li’s teacher, Qi Baishi (1863–1957), as well as elements from earlier masters such as Xu Wei (1521–1593) and Zhu Da (1626–1705).
