46.

Li Qun (1912-2012)

An Image of the Well-clothed and Well-fed

1944

Woodblock print

17 x 24 cm

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In total contrast to his dark images of the 1930s (no. 45), this print by Li Qun epitomizes the folk-art style approved for Communist propaganda at the 1942 Yan’an Conference on Literature and Art. The format is called nianhua (literally, New Year’s print), a popular art made for centuries with auspicious or protective imagery. The designs are characterized by thick black outlines and flat, bright colours. This print shows happy, secure life in the Communist-controlled ‘liberated areas’, even in wartime.

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Muban Educational Trust registration number livqv032