Silver Pheasants under Wisteria, a painting by Wang Xuetao. [Photo/Courtesy of Beijing Fine Art Academy]

Flower–and-birds paintings began to gain a position of increasing importance in the world of Chinese art in the seventh century. The works, which present lively scenes of birds flying between and resting on a variety of blossoms in a vibrant color scheme, bring viewers a touch of spring.

Beijing Fine Art Academy boasts a collection of fine flower-and-bird pieces produced by prominent painters active in the 20th century. Through these depictions of nature, one can also get a glimpse of the diversity of the art communities in Beijing and Shanghai at the time.