Author:Ho Yeh-Chi

Category：Ink Painting

Size:Length:90 x Width:180 (cm)

Introduction：Ho Yeh-Chi (1950-), a native of Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, graduated from the Zhejiang Academy of Fine Arts (now the China Academy of Art) in 1979, studying traditional Chinese painting under Fang Tseng-Hsien, Li Chen-Chien, Chou Tsang-Mi, Wu Shan-Ming, and other esteemed artists. His artwork “Roaring at Night” won the bronze medal at the National New Year Painting Exhibition in 1990, while “Spring Comes to the East” earned the gold medal at the Eighth National Fine Arts Exhibition in 1995. In 2005, he was selected for the National Art Exhibition, and in 2010, he was invited by the Shanghai World Expo to hold a solo exhibition at the Shanghai Art Museum. He has also exhibited in Japan, the United States, and Taiwan. Ho is a member of the China Artists Association and serves as the chairperson of the Ningbo Artists Association.

Ho Yeh-Chi is renowned for his mastery in depicting both human figures and tigers, earning him the title “Tiger King of Jiangnan.” Since the late Qing and early Republican periods, the most celebrated tiger painter was none other than Chang Shan-Tzu, the elder brother of Chang Ta-Chien. He famously raised tigers in Suzhou and Chengdu, observing and painting them alongside his brother. His tigers exuded an almost human-like understanding and emotion, earning him the nickname “Master of Tigers.” In Chinese tradition, tigers symbolize courage, strength, and majesty, and their pronunciation “hu” is a homophone for “fu” (fortune), reinforcing their status as auspicious creatures and kings of all beasts. Throughout history, tigers have been believed to ward off fire, thieves, and evil spirits, making them a common motif in household decorations.

This artwork captures the playful interaction between a mother tiger and her four cubs. On the far right, two cubs are tumbling in a playful scuffle, while the mother gazes attentively at the cub in the center. A fourth cub lingers in the background, seeking affection. The composition is dynamic and engaging, bringing the tiger family to life. The artist’s profound understanding of tigers' ecology and behavior, combined with his exceptional brushwork, allows him to vividly convey the lively and harmonious nature of the tiger family.

Accession Number:PT09904800

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