Kesi Tapestry of a Bird-and-Flower Painting by Zhao Ji

This piece is a silk tapestry version of an original bird-and-flower painting from an album featuring paintings of this type by Zhao Ji, the emperor Huizong (r. 1101-1125) of the Northern Song dynasty (960-1127). In the scene, the pink peonies are depicted in various states of bloom, from buds to flowers in full bloom. The bird atop the peony branch looks down at small insects. Meanwhile, a butterfly flutters about with its wings gracefully opened. These and many other details are portrayed in an exquisite manner. The whole painting resonates with the vibrant spirit of spring.