Lotus, Qi Baishi, early 20th century
Qi Baishi, portraitQi BaishiChinese, 1864–1957

Lotus

early 20th century · Painting

May one see it?

Yes, receiving visitors

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Minneapolis, United States

RoomG203

On public display.

Checked
In this state since
Source
The museum

About the painting

Qi Baishi, one of modern China’s most celebrated painters, was renowned for transforming everyday subjects into vivid, poetic imagery. This fan painting of a lotus captures his bold style: broad, expressive ink washes form dark leaves, while brilliant red blossoms burst forth. The contrast between dynamic brushwork and luminous color is a perfect example of Qi’s unique fusion of tradition and innovation. Rooted in literati (scholar-artist) painting yet infused with a fresh, relaxed spirit, his work embodies both simplicity and profound insight. In this fan, the lotus—long a symbol of purity—becomes a striking emblem of renewal, resilience, and artistic vitality.

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Particulars

Accession number
99.19

In the catalog

Sources

All works

In the same room · G203, Minneapolis Institute of Art

Museum page