Title: Aspects of the Middle Kingdom 2
Artist: D. Anton & Iaking

Description: “The Middle Kingdom” (or Zhongguo 中國) – The historical name for China. A decorative but bold composition bringing together several traditional Chinese themes in black and white to emphasise the complimentary interaction of opposites (also echoed in the in the circles and squares) – a profound metaphor for both life and nature. The decorative framing evokes age old, universal and aesthetically pleasing patterns found in many cultures . The fan has a long history as both a symbol of elegance, nobility and feminine grace (gaining popularity in the time of the Ming Dynasty) and as a backdrop for artists to express their creativity. The lively, playful dragons, in this context, represent their traditional role as bringers of good luck and fortune. Lotus flowers and the brush painting of bamboo plants also play their part in the overall design introducing elements of nature.