Corn, Lotus Root, and Water Chestnut

Zou Yigui (1686–1772) was a highly regarded painter in the Qing dynasty, known for his masterful depictions of flowers and landscapes. He even served the imperial family, a testament to his skill and reputation. His theoretical writings on art, particularly his book "Art of Painting of Xiaoshan," show his deep understanding of painting techniques and philosophy. This painting, "Corn, Lotus Root, and Water Chestnut," exemplifies Zou Yigui's delicate touch and keen observation of nature. While many of his floral works, like "Chrysanthemums" in the Art Institute of Chicago, focus on a single subject, here he brings together a trio of plants, each with its own distinct texture and form. The composition likely reflects the traditional Chinese emphasis on symbolic meanings in nature, though the primary focus remains on the exquisite rendering of each botanical element. Through his work, Zou Yigui offered viewers a serene and detailed glimpse into the natural world, executed with the refined brushwork characteristic of his era.