Four Gentlemen

A traditional group of four plants depicted in Chinese art. Blossom, Orchid, Bamboo and Chrysanthemum. Traditionally these represent the four seasons and symbolise core virtues such as perseverance, purity, strength and resilience. They are seen as a foundational theme in Chinese brush painting, used to express virtues of the ideal person, “junzi” or gentlemen. These works were created in a shallow tray of milk, the symbol of purity and life. The plants were laid semi submerged in milk, then inks, oils and dyes were introduced to the surface of the milk to create a painterly effect designed to echo the aesthetic of Chinese brush painting.