Traditional Chinese ink painting of plum blossoms Original handmade Artist: Xie Gang Xie Gang is a Chinese painter born in Taiyuan, Shanxi province. He is known for his Chinese ink paintings of landscape and flower-and-birds. His paintings have been exhibited, awarded and collected in United States, Canada, China Mainland and Taiwan. He is a member of Shanxi Artists Association, Under-Secretary-General of Taiyuan Artists Association, Executive director of Shanxi Gongbi Painting Association. In Chinese culture, plum, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthemum symbolize the four gentlemen of the flowers. -Plum blossoms are the symbol of the five blessings; Happiness, wisdom, longevity, well-being and tranquility. -Orchids are a symbol of divine purity and are the fragrance of the royalty. They are highly admired for their touching beauty as well. -Bamboo symbolizes resilience, longevity, happiness, spiritual truth, and generous spirits. -Chrysanthemum is a symbol of high moral character and strong will.