Since the 10th century, China’s artists and philosophers have been inspired by the plum’s resilience, the grace and humility of the orchid, the flexible strength of bamboo and the chrysanthemum’s hardiness, considering them as embodiments of the exemplary conduct and nobility of character of the ideal man.
Elegant forms are merely backdrops to these plants and flowers collectively known as the Four Gentlemen, exquisitely sculpted in pewter.