Pine and Snow
Artist
Chao Shao-an
Chinese, 1905 - 1998
Date1984
MaterialsInk and colors on paper
DimensionsH. 11 7/8 in x W. 14 3/4 in, H. 30.2 cm x W. 37.5 cm image; H. 49 1/2 in x W. 19 in, H. 125.7 cm x W. 48.2 cm overall
Credit LineCollection of Master Chao Shao-An
Object number1992.287
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsPainting
On View
On viewInscribedNo one knows of this old pine in the deep mountain.
Grasping clouds and swallowing the moon, it desires
to be a dragon.
Its green foliage diminishes not with frost and snow.
Another year passes so easily, the spring wind blows
once more.
Jiazi year (1984), spring. Shao-an.
Text EntriesThe pine (song) is a symbol of longevity because it is an evergreen and lives for a long time. Such endurance also makes the pine a popular motif to represent a person who possesses nobility and venerability, as suggested by the painting’s inscription:
No one knows of this old pine in the deep mountain. Grasping clouds and swallowing the moon, it desires to be a dragon. Its green foliage diminishes not with frost and snow. Another year passes so easily, the spring wind blows once more.
—Jiazi year [1984], spring, third month. Shao-an.
