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

Snake

Name: Snake
Brand: Xu Beihong
SKU: xu-beihong-snake
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.

Worldwide Express Shipping

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 snake, often misunderstood, is actually a symbol of wisdom, renewal, and adaptability in Chinese culture. Xu uses soft ink washes to render the snake’s smooth scales and fluid lines to capture its graceful, coiled posture on the tree branch. The simple green leaves and light background create a calm, natural setting, highlighting the snake’s quiet elegance. For Xu, the snake represented the quiet strength of being able to adapt and grow, even in changing circumstances. He once said that snakes remind us to stay flexible and keep moving forward, no matter what challenges come our way. 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 fluid ink lines with soft washes, the work uses delicate brushwork to capture the snake’s form. It aims to convey its symbolic meaning of wisdom and adaptability, blending traditional techniques with subtle realism.