Chen Jin(1907-1998)

Eastern Gouache

1971

Length:53.5 x Width:46 (cm)

Chen used the characteristics of Nihonga to depict this flower withunique sophistication. The brilliant white petals are like lunar halos. The ink black leaves flutter in the night. This is an elegant and romantic scene. There is subtle layering and outstanding color gradation. The delicate fragrance of these flowers seems to emerge from this painting. The night-blooming cereus, as its name suggests, only opens after dark and withers before the morning sun appears, making it short-lived and difficult to observe.
Chen was fond of the night-blooming cereus. She referred to it as "moonlit beauty". This is one of Chen's most elaborate flower paintings. It is easy to see her meticulousness in pursuing the artistic spirit of truth, righteousness and beauty.

Accession Number:D0012