PREPARING THE ELIXIR BENEATH A PINE
The pine tree stays green even in winter, so it is seen as a symbol of longevity and of overcoming adversity. Along with bamboo and the blossoming plum tree, it is known as one of the Three Friends of Winter, symbolizing friends who remain constant in all conditions. Pines can also symbolize the last years of a long life, so they were traditionally planted near graves.
This painting by Chen Hongshou shows a man under a pine tree brewing an elixir for long life. The painting was a birthday gift for a father (aged eighty) and son (aged sixty) to wish many happy returns, which both the pine and the elixir symbolize.
Object Number
F1980.136a
Date
1651, Qing Dynasty
Artist
Chen Hongshou (1598–1652)
Place of Origin
China
Medium
Ink on gold paper
Dimensions
H × W (image): 33.5 × 27.4 cm
(13 3/16 × 10 13/16 in.)
Credit line
Transfer from the United States Customs Service, Department of the Treasury