This set of fan paintings offers glimpses into Fu Baoshi’s private world and differs from the state-commissioned works painted to fulfill his social duty. Whether depicting travelers in green mountains or a recluse listening to the sound of rushing water, the artwork and its subject matter are vehicles for self-expression Several of the paintings have dedicatory inscriptions to Fu’s wife, Luo Shihui, or to his eldest daughter, Yishan. Not only do these inscriptions offer glimpses into the artist’s private life, they also reveal acutely felt emotions, especially the struggle of a loving father deeply troubled by a daughter’s illness.
