Bamboo and Rock

Zheng Xie (1693–1765), better known as Zheng Banqiao, was one of the most celebrated painters of the Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou and a master of literati art.

Bamboo and Rock displays his typical artistic language, featuring upright bamboo growing beside a solid, angular rock in a spare and elegant composition.

He uses bold, calligraphic brushstrokes and varied ink tones to capture the strength and grace of bamboo, as well as the firm texture of the stone.

The painting is simple in form but rich in spirit, emphasizing openness, elegance, and the quiet power of nature through empty space and concise lines.

As a classic of literati painting, Bamboo and Rock symbolizes integrity, perseverance, and noble moral character, representing the highest ideals of traditional Chinese scholar-artists.