Flowers, Birds and Insects - Folio 1. Source: Digital Library of Rouen.
Estimated Publication date late 17th - 18th Century, China.
Artist Unknown.

Ink and brush paintings of China's flora, fauna and the ancient art of Penjing*. Two large folios were produced. consisting of 50 artworks depicting elaborate and colourful pots of flowers, blossom trees, birds and rocks. And another 50 artworks of miniature fruit trees, rocks, butterflies and other insects in equally ornate pots. The Chinese had a passion for trees, flowering plants and gardens. In fact, many Chinese gardens were on a miniature scale and included many miniature trees and shrubs planted to reinforce the scale and balance of their landscapes.

* Penjing, literally meaning "tray scenery" is the ancient art form of potted landscape of miniature trees, plants, rockery and other scenes. It originated first in China in 600AD. Bonsai appeared in Japan in the 12th century.