Gardenia Flowers《栀子花图轴》

Gao Yihong (1908–1982)
Also known as the owner of Lanxiang Pavilion, Gao Yihong was a native of Hangzhou, Zhejiang. He studied poetry, calligraphy, and painting under his father from an early age and later received guidance from prominent artists Xu Beihong and Zhang Shuqi. Gao Yihong co-founded the “Tianfeng Calligraphy and Painting Society” alongside Lai Chusheng, Bai Jiao, and Tang Yun, fostering a community dedicated to artistic expression. Renowned for his depictions of flowers, feathers, and insects, Gao’s work evolved over time. While his early pieces featured meticulous ink sketches, his later style leaned toward a freer, more expressive approach that integrated calligraphic elements into his paintings.

Following 1949, Gao relocated to Taiwan, where he continued his artistic pursuits. His ability to blend traditional techniques with a modern sensibility solidified his reputation as a master of both form and spirit in Chinese painting.

“Gardenia Flowers” (1944)
This painting, created in 1944 during Gao Yihong’s early period, exemplifies his refined brush technique and attention to detail. The composition centers on a cluster of blooming gardenias, rendered with clarity, elegance, and a sense of vitality. The delicate brushwork captures the softness of the petals and the vibrant energy of the plant, while the overall mood conveys a poetic serenity.

The inscription reads:
“Gorgeous gardenias, bright and beautiful. Jade dew washes the light wind, and the fragrance permeates the paper. Written in Sichuan in the spring of Jiashen year. Yihong.”

Below the inscription are two seals: “Gao Yihong” in white and “Yan Gaoxuan” in red. Additionally, a red seal reading “Yan Gaoxuan Calligraphy and Painting Records” is stamped in the lower right corner of the painting, attesting to its provenance.

Although this piece belongs to Gao’s earlier works, it demonstrates his exceptional skill and artistic sensitivity. The vigorous yet elegant brushstrokes and vivid composition reflect his mastery of traditional techniques while hinting at the freer, more expressive style that would characterize his later works. This painting captures the artist’s deep connection to nature and his poetic approach to its representation, making it a noteworthy example of mid-20th-century Chinese painting.

高逸鸿（1908—1982），别号兰香馆主，浙江杭州人。自幼随父学习诗文书画，曾请益于徐悲鸿、张书旂，后又与来楚生、白蕉、唐云等组织“天风书画社”。善花卉、翎毛、草虫，1949年后渡海赴台。早期作品偏重于水墨写生，晚期多写意，讲求以书入画。

高逸鸿此画作于1944年，虽属于早年作品，然笔墨清劲雅逸，气韵生动，显示了他深厚的功底。款题：“娟娟栀子花，皎皎颜色美。玉露洗光风，氤氲香透纸。甲申春月作于蜀中。逸鸿。”款下钤白文“高逸鸿”、朱文“雁高轩”二印。画右下角钤朱文“雁高轩书画记”印。