Hsu Shen-Chou(1918-2005)

Eastern Gouache

Length:43 x Width:55 (cm)

There is a saying: "When spring warms water's flow, the ducks are the first to know." In this painting are depicted a pair of mandarin ducks. Along the crystal clear water of the lake hang red flowers. The male has his head turned as he grooms his beautifully colored feathers. The relatively less adorned female keeps her gaze on the male. In the animal world, there can be deep feelings of attachment. This artist made ingenious use of delicate buds, as well as twigs and soft leaves between the red blossoms to create a subtle frame for this scene and to symbolize the joy of the arrival of spring.

Accession Number:D0016