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Ink Trees

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Immerse yourself in an audiovisual experience with a story that'll move and inspire you, straight from The Art Institute of Chicago. See "Ink Trees" and many more artworks on Galleree in a new light--it's like nothing else.

An artwork on Galleree from The Art Institute of Chicago.

About the artwork

Ink Trees
Xu Zijing (Chinese, 1734–1808)
Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
China
87 × 160.7 cm (34 1/4 × 63 1/4 in.)
Hanging scroll; ink on silk
Gift of Florence Ayscough and Harley Farnsworth MacNair
['hanging scroll', 'painting', 'asian art']

This artwork titled "Ink Trees" invites viewers into a tranquil embrace of nature. The delicate strokes of ink create a sense of depth and texture, showcasing the intricate patterns of bark and foliage. Each branch appears to tell its own story, intertwining with the others in a dance of shadows and light.

The muted palette offers a soothing effect, allowing one to reflect quietly on the essence of the trees, which stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time. There's a harmony in the way the branches extend outward, reaching for connection while simultaneously suggesting solitude. The contrast of dark ink against the softer, lighter background enhances the trees' presence, making them the focal point of contemplation.

In "Ink Trees," the serene landscape encourages viewers to pause, breathe, and ponder the beauty that exists in simplicity. The artwork captures a moment of stillness, inviting introspection and a deeper understanding of nature's resilience. It reminds us of the stories that lie within the natural world, waiting to be explored.


About the artist

Welcome to the Art Institute of Chicago, home to a collection of art that spans centuries and the globe—and one of Tripadvisor’s “Best of the Best” US attractions of 2023. We look forward to your visit and invite you to explore our many exhibitions and to join us for one of our free daily tours in-person.The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from The Institute's Open Access dataset under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.
Address: 111 South Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL, USA 60603


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