Is this artwork authentic?

Yes. Every artwork sold by Kiln & Ink comes with a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Qi Baishi. We guarantee the authenticity of every piece we sell, with a full refund if any claim is upheld within 12 months of purchase.

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We accept returns within 14 days of delivery for items in original, undamaged condition with all original packaging and certificates included. Auction purchases and custom commissions are non-returnable.

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Printmaking

Rice Ears with Mantis

Name: Rice Ears with Mantis
Brand: Qi Baishi
SKU: qi-baishi-rice-ears-with-mantis
Price: 1690 USD
Availability: InStock

by Qi Baishi · changsha,hunan

$1,690

In stock

MaterialInk on xuan paper, mounted on silkscroll

Dimensions35 x 35 cm

Year1945

EditionUnique work

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Authenticity Guaranteed

Artist-estate Certificate of Authenticity, hand-numbered in pencil at the point of pulling.

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Free written provenance confirmation on request — for resale, insurance, donation, or independent appraisal, in perpetuity.

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Free over $500. Acid-free archival tissue, rigid tube, fully insured.

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The Story

Qi Baishi painted Mantis and Millet as part of his beloved “insect and plant” series. Inspired by his rural childhood in Hunan, he often observed small creatures in nature, capturing their movements with extraordinary precision. He once said, “To paint a mantis, I must see it hunt, stretch, and breathe.” In this work, the mantis is rendered with fine, almost scientific detail, while the millet stalk is painted with quick, bold strokes of red ink. The contrast highlights Qi’s unique style: the “gongbi” (meticulous) insect and “xieyi” (freehand) plant. The millet also carries a symbolic meaning, representing harvest and abundance, while the mantis adds a touch of lively, natural charm. For Qi, these small scenes were far more than still life. They were celebrations of life itself. Even in his old age, he continued to paint insects and plants, finding endless joy in the ordinary beauty of nature. This painting remains one of his most iconic works, loved for its simplicity, precision, and quiet vitality.

Craft & Process

The work combines meticulous brushwork for the mantis and freehand strokes for the millet. The concept celebrates the beauty of everyday nature, blending realistic detail with expressive ink art to capture the harmony between small creatures and the harvest season.

About the Artist

Qi Baishi

changsha,hunan

Qi Baishi (1864–1957) was a great Chinese painter, calligrapher and seal carver. He was famous for vivid shrimps, flowers and birds, with a fresh and simple artistic style.

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