The Pine Tree in the Severe Winter

Integrating both "round" and "square" brushstrokes, Tzeng developed a uniquely personal style, drawing on styles from both the north and south of China. Pine Tree in Winter combines poetry and painting, with written characters taking up most of the space, while the titular pine occupies the center of the piece. Tzeng used both "wet" and "dry" brush techniques, vividly rendering the tree's desiccated needles, the strokes powerful and robust, the textual elements lively and natural. Compositionally, viewers' line of vision is directed diagonally to the upper right The overall layout forms the shape of the character "gong 工," an arresting configuration, hinting at the artist's ingenuity.