Printmaking
Ox
by Xu Beihong · Yixing, Jiangsu$499
$599
In stock
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The Story
This work is part of Xu Beihong’s iconic Twelve Chinese Zodiac Animals series, created in 1945. Xu, a master of blending Western realism with Eastern ink art, painted each zodiac animal to reflect its cultural symbolism and the spirit of the times. The ox, a symbol of hard work, reliability, and resilience in Chinese culture, is portrayed with characteristic warmth and strength. Xu uses soft ink washes to render the ox’s sturdy form and gentle lines to capture its peaceful, reclining posture. The simple, light background keeps focus on the ox, emphasizing its quiet dignity. For Xu, the ox was not just a zodiac animal; it represented the enduring spirit of the Chinese people, who work steadily and tirelessly to build a better future. He once said that the ox’s quiet strength is a reminder to stay grounded and keep moving forward, even when progress feels slow. Today, this painting remains a beloved example of his mastery, blending art, culture, and the spirit of his time into one vivid image.
Craft & Process
Combining soft ink washes and bold lines, the work captures the ox’s calm strength. It blends traditional Chinese brush techniques with subtle realism, aiming to convey the symbolic virtues of diligence and perseverance
About the Artist
Xu Beihong
Yixing, Jiangsu
Xu Beihong (1895–1953): the painter who fused European academic realism with ink, and whose galloping horses became a national symbol of resilience.
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