Children Celebrating the Spring Festival

Artist Wang Chengpei (Chinese, 1725 - 1805)

Dateapprox. 1800-1900

DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911)

MaterialsInk and colors on paper

DimensionsH. 9 1/4 in x W. 20 1/2 in, H. 23.5 cm x W. 52.1 cm (image); H. 12 1/2 in x W. 24 1/2 in, H. 31.8 cm x W. 62.2 cm (overall, folded)

Credit LineGift of Joseph and Nancy Wang in memory of Dr. and Mrs. Hsin-Chung Wang

Object number1998.32.d

DepartmentChinese Art

ClassificationsPainting

On View

Not on view

SignedArtist signature: Xuejiao Wang Chengpei 雪蕉汪承霈。 Seal: Wang XX? 其一(或汪？白文圓印，不可辨)；Shizhai 時齋(白文方印)，Huayi 畫意(鈐於左下方，朱文葫蘆形印)。

Inscribed韻亭寅長兄世老大人宜春之喜。

Markingstwo seals: ?, pei

More Information

When combined with various flowers, pine and plum usually indicate the arrival of spring. In this fan painting by Wang Chengpei, nine boys celebrate the start of spring with games and toys. Some present a container of pine branches, nandina, peony, and chrysanthemum, together symbolizing longevity and prosperity. A halberd, a martial-arts weapon, decorated with hanging chimes and fish means "celebration and abundance." Wearing an official headdress, jade belt, and pomegranates while dragging a boat on wheels conveys the blessing, “may my (high) rank be passed on to my descendants.” The gesture of waving plum blossoms at flying birds announces their joy for the upcoming new season. Lighting a firecracker suggests a bright future and good news.

Subject