The flower-and-bird style of classical Chinese painting has long been a major genre where painters demonstrate technical mastery and aesthetic vision. In depicting animals and plants, artists express themes of the relationship between humans and nature, exploring how harmony and peace can be achieved in everyday life.

In the 20th century, pioneering artists breathed new life into the flower-and-bird genre through innovative approaches. Wu Changshuo incorporated forceful calligraphic strokes, Qi Baishi adopted a minimalist style with loose shades of damp colors, and Song Wenzhi infused modernism into his depictions of plum blossoms.

Some of these influential works, along with other arts and crafts, are currently on display in various venues in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, Guangdong province, until Thursday. They will be auctioned at Rong Bao Zhai's Shenzhen sales on Friday and Saturday.