Fragrance of Ten Miles of Lotus (十里荷香)

This painting, "Fragrance of Ten Miles of Lotus", is created by the artist Gao Ke and continues his signature gongbi (meticulous brush) style of flower-and-bird painting—delicate, refined, and full of grace. The composition features large lotus leaves that form a richly layered structure. The leaves, slightly mottled, exude a sense of natural charm. Scattered elegantly among them are several pink lotuses—some in bud, others quietly in full bloom. Their petals are softly shaded with great finesse, radiating an aura of pure and understated beauty. Red leaves and clusters of purple flowers are interspersed between the lotuses, adding vibrancy and depth to the color palette while accentuating the lotus blossoms’ gentle elegance. The inscription includes a poetic line: “On all sides, mountain light meets water light; leaning on the railing, the fragrance of lotuses wafts for ten miles.” This evokes a vast, tranquil, and poetic atmosphere. Viewers are transported to an expansive lotus pond where distant mountains meet shimmering waters, a gentle breeze blows, and the air is filled with the heady scent of lotus blossoms. The painting not only portrays the beauty of nature but also conveys deep emotional resonance, reflecting the artist’s yearning for serenity and inner peace. It is a work that harmoniously blends realism and lyricism—ideal for contemplation and aesthetic appreciation.