| 内容简介（英文） | Chiang Ting (style name Tso-mei) was a native of Ch’ang-shu, Kiangsu. In 1751, he received his chin-shih civil service degree and entered the Hanlin Academy, later serving as Minister of War. He also became known for his flower paintings. Chiang came from a powerful clan of Ch’ang-shu which produced generations of officials as well as artists. Perhaps best known is Chiang Ting’s grandfather, Chiang T’ing-hsi, and father, Chiang P’u. Pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms are known as “The Three Friends of Winter,” a subject often depicted by literati artists starting in the Sung dynasty (960-1279). Literati chose these three subjects for their ability to thrive in winter, similar to the scholar who perseveres through hardship. Thus, they became symbols of purity and integrity of spirit. In this painting, the dots and washes on the stones and trees are delicate, and the brushwork is elegant and untrammelled -- expressing the characteristic Chiang style. |
