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清朝伊秉綬行書對聯絹本 During the Qing dynasty (1644–1911), pairs of hanging scrolls known as couplets (duilian) became popular as gifts. They were intended for public display, often during seasonal holidays, weddings, and other auspicious occasions. The rules for couplets are strict: only two lines of poetry could be presented, one on each scroll, and there had to be many parallel structures between the two. Here, using lines from two poems of the Tang dynasty (617–906), Yi Bingshou has created an example of “gathered verses,” in which lines from older poems are joined into new combinations. The couplet reads:Right: Deep colors penetrate heaven, two thousand feetin height!Left: Beautiful flowers emerge from earth, and climb twoflights of stairs.The highly original style of Yi’s semicursive script was also the result of a thoughtful combination. Some of the character structures are taken from clerical script, while the fluidity of the writing is due to a semicursive approach. The extreme variation in the brushwork from thin and pointy to thick and blunt is a mixture of the two.

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Artist Biography

Yi Bingshou: A Poet Painter of Qing Dynasty China

Yi Bingshou (1754-1815) stands as a fascinating figure within the artistic landscape of Qing Dynasty China, recognized not only for his exquisite paper paintings but also for his contributions to culinary traditions and literary scholarship. Born in Beijing during a period of significant cultural flourishing, Yi’s life intersected with pivotal moments shaping Chinese history and artistic expression. His early education focused on calligraphy and Confucian ethics—disciplines that would profoundly influence his artistic sensibilities. Like many aspiring officials, he excelled in the civil service examinations, securing a jinshi degree in 1779 – an accomplishment indicative of his intellectual prowess and ambition to serve his nation. This formative experience instilled within him a deep appreciation for order, harmony, and meticulous craftsmanship—qualities that would permeate his artistic endeavors. Yi Bingshou’s artistic output spanned various mediums, primarily paper paintings depicting landscapes imbued with serene beauty and symbolic resonance. His style is characterized by subtle brushstrokes and careful attention to detail, reflecting the prevailing aesthetic ideals of the Qing court. Notably, he was celebrated for popularizing Yangzhou fried rice—a dish that gained immense renown throughout China—and tradition holds him responsible for inventing Yi mein noodles, demonstrating his impact beyond purely visual art. Beyond his artistic achievements, Yi Bingshou’s legacy extends into the realm of literature. He penned poems and couplets reflecting Confucian moral principles and capturing the essence of nature's grandeur. These works exemplify the importance of calligraphy as a form of intellectual expression and underscore Yi’s commitment to upholding cultural values during his time. His poetry demonstrates an understanding of Daoist philosophy, blending natural imagery with philosophical contemplation. His contribution to Qing Dynasty art is significant because it embodies the spirit of the era—a blend of scholarly pursuits and artistic refinement. He represents a pivotal voice in Chinese culture, reminding us that creativity wasn’t solely confined to visual arts but permeated various aspects of daily life and intellectual discourse. Yi Bingshou's enduring fame rests on his multifaceted talents and his indelible mark upon Qing Dynasty China.

yi bingshou

1754 - 1815 , China

Quick Facts

Date Of Birth: Beijing, China (1754)
Date Of Death: 1815
Full Name: Yi Bingshou
Nationality: Chinese
Notable Artworks: ['Landscapes']
Place Of Birth: Beijing

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Couplet

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Giclée / Art Print

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Giclée / Art Print

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Yi Bingshou: A Poet Painter of Qing Dynasty China