Is this artwork authentic?

Yes. Every artwork sold by Kiln & Ink comes with a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Xu Beihong. 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

Magpies in Spring

Name: Magpies in Spring
Brand: Xu Beihong
SKU: xu-beihong-magpies-in-spring
Price: 499 USD
Availability: InStock

by Xu Beihong · Yixing, Jiangsu

$499

$699

In stock

MaterialInk on xuan paper, mounted on silkscroll

Dimensions38 x 35 cm

Year1942

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

This work, created in 1948, is one of Xu Beihong’s most beloved flower-and-bird paintings. Xu, a master of blending Western realism with Eastern ink art, often painted magpies as symbols of hope and good news. In Chinese culture, the magpie is a classic symbol of auspiciousness, and its presence on a branch is known as “magpie on the branch,” a wish for happy events to come. In this piece, he uses bold, simple strokes to render the magpie’s black-and-white plumage, and soft washes to depict the twisted branch and colorful autumn leaves. The composition balances stillness and elegance, with the bird’s upright posture radiating quiet confidence. For Xu, this work was a celebration of life’s small joys, a gentle wish for peace and happiness during a turbulent time. He once said that magpies are nature’s messengers of good news, and he sought to capture that warmth in his art. Today, this painting remains a cherished example of his mastery, admired for its elegant brushwork and timeless symbolism.

Craft & Process

Combining traditional ink techniques with subtle realism, the work uses bold lines and soft washes. It aims to capture the magpie’s poised charm, symbolizing good fortune, joy, and auspiciousness in Chinese culture.