Bada Shanren

Bada Shanren was a Chinese painter and calligrapher of the 17th century, famous for his distinctive and expressive artwork. He was originally a Ming Dynasty royal family member who became a monk after the dynasty fell, which influenced his art. His paintings often feature bold brushstrokes, vivid ink washes, and symbolic themes like birds, flowers, and skulls, reflecting personal emotion and commentary on society. Bada Shanren's work is admired for its originality, poetic quality, and deep spiritual undertones, making him an important figure in Chinese art history.