The harbinger of spring
(迎春圖)
(c. 1980)
- Credit Line
- National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Presented by The Federation of Chinese Associations, 1983
© The estate of Guan Shanyue
- Gallery location
- Asian Art - Chinese Gallery
Level 1, NGV International
About this work
Here the traditional theme of the blossoming plum tree is painted in a vibrant modern style. The prunus – the first flower of the year to blossom, even before the snow has melted – is the harbinger of spring. The excitement of life is felt in the new branches shooting upwards. A feeling of joy and excitement heralds the arrival of spring. This sentiment expresses the modern spirit of China: when referring to the flourishing of cultural and artistic activities, Mao Zedong once said, ‘Let a hundred flowers blossom.’ Guan Shanyue is one of contemporary China’s most celebrated artists; he visited Melbourne in 1983, when this painting was first exhibited at the NGV.
Artwork Details
stamped in red ink (in image) u.r.: 關
Presented by The Federation of Chinese Associations, 1983
© The estate of Guan Shanyue
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of The Gordon Darling Foundation
Level 1, NGV International