| The album of "After a Good Nap" was done one afternoon after Ding Yanyong woke up from a nap and gave an art lesson to his students. As a demonstration, he drew various species and genera of birds, insects, fish and flowers. He was obviously inspired by the moment, which is shown in the simple and uncluttered pictorial compositions, the vivid and lively subjects, and the terse and firm brushstrokes as well as calligraphy. From the fluidity, crispness and kinetic charm of his lines, one can see that behind the seeming ease and relaxed ink play, there is the virtuosity of a lifetime of a true master in art. The resting eagle in this picture shows the influence of the art of Bada Shanren. |
