Red Plum Blossoms

Although plum paintings usually present the delicate nature of the flower, this painting places the focus on the dynamic strength of an old plum tree. The tree is cut off on three sides, leaving its thick, gnarled stem suspended in the center, with short branches forming harsh shapes. In some bold strokes the hair of the brush is separated due to the strength and speed of the execution, resulting in white gaps known in calligraphy as the “flying white” effect—which is often seen in the writing of cursive script.

A native of Shanxi, Dong Shouping was a respected calligrapher and prolific painter who also taught art at colleges. Introduced to the Chinese classics, calligraphy, and painting at a young age, Dong was famous for his impressive renditions of plum blossoms, bamboos, and landscapes—especially of Mount Huang. Dong’s art influenced that of his contemporaries, who were eager to revitalize traditional painting after the Cultural Revolution (1966–1976).