Fish, paper, 90x50
Zhu Da, a Ming prince turned monk, painted this solitary fish with a distinctively grumpy expression—eyes rolling upward in a classic 'side-eye' that became his trademark rebellion against the ruling Qing dynasty. Created in 1694, this minimalist ink wash masterpiece uses vast empty space to make the lonely fish feel isolated yet defiant. The wild calligraphy at the top is signed with his famous pseudonym 'Bada Shanren,' which visually resembles the characters for 'cry' and 'laugh' simultaneously, hinting at his complex grief and humor.
- Technique
- Ink wash painting
- Material
- Paper