Poems

Art Historical Context

Behold the elegant "Poems" by Zhang Qihou, a masterful work of Chinese calligraphy dated 1934 Crafted in ink on paper, this originated as a folding fan, later mounted as an album leaf, measuring 7¼ x 20¾ inches. Now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art Department—thanks to a generous 1995 gift from Robert Hatfield Ell in memory of La Ferne Hatfieldsworth—it exemplifies the enduring tradition of literati art. In the Republican era of 1930s China, amid rapid modernization, artists like Zhang Qihou preserved classical calligraphic forms while infusing them with personal expression. Calligraphy, revered as the pinnacle of Chinese arts, intertwines poetry and brushwork, where fluid strokes convey rhythm, emotion, and philosophical depth. Here, the inscribed poems likely reflect scholarly introspection, a cultural hallmark where writing was both art and moral practice. The fan format adds charm: portable and intimate, these objects were cherished gifts among elites, often opened to reveal poetic musings during social gatherings. By remounting it as an album leaf, the work gains permanence, inviting contemplation. Zhang's precise yet dynamic ink lines showcase the "bone strength" of mature calligraphy, bridging ancient literati ideals with 20th-century vitality—a timeless treasure for visitors.