Flying Cicada
Artist
Chao Shao-an
(Chinese, 1905 - 1998)
Place of OriginChina
Date1984
MaterialsInk and colors on paper
DimensionsImage: H. 11 5/8 in x W. 14 3/4 in, H. 29.5 x W. 37.5 cm;
Overall: H. 49 5/8 in x W. 19 in, H. 126.0 cm x W. 48.3 cm;
Framed: H. 50 3/4 in x W. 20 in x D. 2 1/2 in, H. 128.9 cm x W. 50.8 cm x D. 6.4 cm
Overall: H. 49 5/8 in x W. 19 in, H. 126.0 cm x W. 48.3 cm;
Framed: H. 50 3/4 in x W. 20 in x D. 2 1/2 in, H. 128.9 cm x W. 50.8 cm x D. 6.4 cm
Credit LineCollection of Master Chao Shao-An
Object number1992.282
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsPainting
On View
Not on viewChao shared a lifelong interest in close-ups of insects and birds with other artists from the Lingnan school. Here he has chosen to represent a cicada. This insect is associated with wisdom and study, as its Chinese name sounds like chan, the word for Zen Buddhism, understanding, and knowledge. In this work, a cicada opens silklike wings to fly away from a tree. Branches with green sprouts hang in the air. Many parents would get cicada cages as gifts for their children, especially in summertime when the insect sings, as a reminder to study for school exams.
The inscription is a poem:
The heavy dew impedes its flight.
The strong wind muffles its cry.
Jiazi year [1984], spring, third month. Chao Shao-an at the Fragrant Island [Hong Kong]
Subject
- cicada
- willow
