Large Hydrangea Painting (大綉圖)

Mr. Li’s “Large Hydrangea Painting” is a nearly three-meter-long bird-and-flower handscroll executed in meticulous gongbi technique, portraying the flourishing beauty of hydrangeas in full bloom. Two main trees dominate the scene, their twisting branches supporting clusters of white blossoms set against dark green leaves. The layered composition is clear and balanced, exuding a fresh and tranquil mood. With delicate brushwork and restrained use of ink, the artist creates a soft and quiet atmosphere through careful contrasts of light and shade, density and openness—revealing his keen observation of natural forms and rhythm. In composition, the sloping rocks, bamboo shadows, and distant pavilion echo one another, enhancing the central motif. The round, clustered hydrangeas symbolize harmony and vitality, while also suggesting reflection on the passage of time. The inscription on the left side of the scroll is written in an unpretentious and natural style, recording the artist’s creative thoughts and complementing the painting’s tone. Technically, the work blends the precision of gongbi with the expressive qualities of xieyi. The lines are disciplined yet lively, and the use of blank space is well judged, allowing solid and void to interact harmoniously. The scroll demonstrates thoughtful structure and brush control, continuing the refined spirit of traditional literati flower-and-bird painting while expressing the artist’s contemporary sensibility and personal connection to nature.