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.

Can I return this artwork?

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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All artworks are professionally packed using museum-grade materials and fully insured for their declared value during transit. We ship worldwide. International shipments may be subject to import duties in your country.

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Printmaking

Rat

Name: Rat
Brand: Xu Beihong
SKU: xu-beihong-rat
Price: 499 USD
Availability: InStock

by Xu Beihong · Yixing, Jiangsu

$499

$599

In stock

MaterialInk on xuan paper, mounted on silkscroll

Dimensions33 x 30 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.

14-Day Returns

Easy returns on undamaged works in original packaging.

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 rat, the first zodiac animal, is a symbol of intelligence, quick thinking, and prosperity in Chinese culture. Xu uses soft ink washes to render the mouse’s fur and sharp, lively lines to capture its scurrying, playful posture. The simple, light background keeps focus on the mouse, highlighting its natural agility and charm. For Xu, the mouse represented the cleverness and resilience needed to thrive in any environment. He once said that even the smallest creatures have great spirit, and he sought to capture that energy in his work. 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

Using delicate ink lines and soft washes, the work captures the mouse’s agility and charm. It blends traditional Chinese brush techniques with subtle realism, aiming to convey its symbolic meaning of wit and resourcefulness.