Bamboo

Zheng Xie

1751

Bamboo by Zheng Xie, 1751

Zheng Xie, also known as Zheng Banqiao, was a rebellious artist in the Qing Dynasty who belonged to the famous 'Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou.' In this striking vertical scroll, he uses sharp, calligraphic brushstrokes to depict bamboo stalks reaching skyward, seamlessly blending the painting with a large poem at the top. He famously served as a magistrate and claimed that the rustling of bamboo leaves sounded like the cries of the common people, making this plant a symbol of his integrity and resilience. The inscription notes this was painted in 1751 at his official residence, referencing the great poet Su Dongpo to show his artistic lineage.

Technique
Ink wash painting
Material
Paper
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