FAN DONGWANG | Roadside Pine 路边松

“Pine trees symbolize steadfastness, self-discipline, and endurance. It’s often depicted with other symbols of longevity such as the cranes associated with Immortals in Chinese art. Carvings of landscape images were especially popular but difficult, employing semi-abstract design and elegant decorative elements. The narrow dimensions of the jade or lacquer used by Chinese artists to carve landscapes strongly affected the composition and restricted the figure's volume and depths. Decorative lines and patterns are essential in this process. Artists also used larger shadows (cut deeper) to enhance the image.”