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Animal Symbolism in Traditional Chinese Painting

Traditional Chinese animal painting is a significant genre within Chinese art, reflecting the deep cultural, philosophical, and symbolic connections between humans and animals. Often created using traditional techniques such as ink and wash (水墨画) or gongbi (工笔, meticulous brushwork), these paintings are rich in symbolic meanings and serve to convey moral lessons, philosophical ideas, and expressions of beauty in nature.

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Shui Mo - Chinese Ink Wash Painting

Chinese Ink Wash Painting (水墨画, Shui Mo Hua) is a traditional style of painting that uses black ink and water as the primary medium. Originating during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), it has been a cornerstone of Chinese art, embodying the principles of simplicity, harmony, and spirituality. Rooted in Daoist, Confucian, and Zen Buddhist philosophies, it prioritizes the essence and spirit of a subject over its realistic details.

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Sumi-e - Japanese Ink Painting

Sumi-e (墨絵) is a traditional Japanese art form that emphasizes simplicity, balance, and the essence of the subject. It evolved from Chinese ink-wash painting (水墨画) and was deeply influenced by Zen Buddhism. Sumi-e uses black ink, water, and brush techniques to create dynamic and expressive artworks.

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Xie Yi - The Art of Essence and Interpretation

Xieyi (Hsieh yi, 寫意) is a traditional Chinese painting style that emphasizes expressiveness and spontaneity rather than meticulous detail. The term “xieyi” literally translates to “writing ideas” or “sketching thoughts,” which reflects its focus on capturing the spirit or essence of the subject rather than its realistic appearance. 

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Gong Bi - A traditional Chinese Painting Technique

Gongbi (工笔) is a traditional Chinese painting technique characterized by its meticulous and highly detailed brushwork. The term “gongbi” literally means “skillful brush,” reflecting the precision and discipline required to execute this style.

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