Life Drawing of Precious Birds and Animals

Curious how a painting can capture a family legacy?

Huang Quan’s Life Drawing of Precious Birds and Animals, housed in the Palace Museum in Beijing, does just that. Created for his son, Huang Jubao, this masterpiece showcases exquisite accuracy in its portrayal of birds, animals, and insects, reflecting a methodical approach to sketching from life. Much like the meticulous nature of German painters, Huang Quan's realistic style highlights his mastery in both landscape and figure painting. A beautiful reminder of the dedication and artistry that flows through generations.

Five Dynasties Period (907-960) Huang Quan. Colored, silk, scroll. 41.5cm*70cm. Collection of the Palace Museum, Beijing.

This piece is compiled from the Chinese edition of Three Thousand Years of Chinese Painting by Foreign Languages Press and Yale University Press, translated by Chen Ying.