ZHANG DAQIAN (1899-1983)

The painting was dedicated to Zhan Liangzhi, the landscape architect for Zhang Daqian’s residence in Taiwan named Moye Jingshe. In Huatan Qicai Zhang Daqian (II), the writer Wang Jiacheng describes Zhang’s idea for his residence: “Once entering the door is the forecourt, with a flat lawn and many bonsai plants; closer to the house are flowers, trees and a swimming pool.” Zhang Daqian had particular requests for every corner of his house; for example, “the south of the second floor is the painting studio and mounting room, to facilitate the restorer to come work on the paintings. The rest of the floor is a sleeping area for my children and grandchildren. Above the second floor is a rooftop garden with a great vista, decorated with a lawn and bonsai, gibbon cage and small umbrellas for shading.” Zhan Liangzhi had a close friendship with the artist through building his ideal dwelling, and Zhang Daqian dedicated this painting to him as a token of gratitude.