Hydrangea Flowers (繡球)

This painting titled "Hydrangea" showcases the delicate beauty of hydrangea flowers. The flowers in the painting are pure white like jade, with petals layered upon each other, their textures crisp and clear, almost allowing one to feel their softness and freshness. The leaves are highlighted in light green with fine veins, forming a harmonious contrast with the white flower clusters, adding vivacity and depth to the image. The inscription "玉玲瓏" (Jade Delicate) echoes the exquisiteness of the hydrangeas. The phrase "求學長安，常與同儕遊草堂寺，後客居漢中漢台，有繡球數株" (Studied in Chang'an, often visited Caotang Temple with peers, later resided in Hantai, Hanzhong, with several hydrangeas) narrates snippets of the artist's life and his sentimental memories of hydrangeas. These words not only provide context to the artwork but also add a layer of literary and historical depth. Mo An's brushwork is delicate, and the choice of colors is restrained yet elegant, rendering the entire artwork with a fresh and refined aesthetic.