Lot 137. Qi Baishi (1863-1957), Seal Script Calligraphy - Cane. Hanging scroll, ink on paper, 112 3⁄8 x 13 1⁄8 in. (31.3 x 33.2 cm.). Inscribed and signed, with two seals of the artist. Price Realised USD 25,000 (Estimate USD 6,000 - USD 10,000). © Christie's 2021

Provenance: Christie's Hong Kong, Fine 19th and 20th Century Chinese Paintings, 18 March, 1991, Lot 136.

Note: The Chinese character "zhe" means sugar cane. Qi Baishi's inscription here refers to an anecdote where the famed Jin dynasty artist Gu Kaizhi (ca. 345-406) was asked why he ate sugar cane from the top toward the root, to which he replied, “The situation gradually improves [gets sweeter].” Hence, “zhe jing” or “sugar cane situation” has come to mean adversity is followed by good fortunate, or one obtains prosperity as one enters into older age.

Christie's. Art of China and Japan, New York, 1 Dec - 14 Dec 2021