Lotus Flower (荷花)

This ink painting titled "Lotus" was created by Qu Jian. It captures the dynamic elegance of the lotus flower with concise and powerful brushstrokes. The lotus blooms amidst the dark ink of the leaves, with its bright red petals standing out sharply against the black and white, highlighting the pure image of the lotus as it rises unblemished from the mud. The inscription "The lotus emerges from the mud unsullied" alongside the painting emphasizes that the lotus maintains its purity even as it grows from the mire. This depiction not only portrays the beauty of nature but also symbolizes the ability to maintain dignity and purity amidst adversity.