The practice of tea drinking has been present in Asian culture for centuries and is commonly depicted in traditional Chinese ink painting. In this painting by Song Meng, a nicely dressed woman is seen seated with a plainly dressed man while a boy servant holding a fan is seen crouching beside the stone structure with teapots and cups placed on it. This painting reflects several aspects of society during the Song dynasty in China which includes the liberty and freedom that some women had. This offers a new perspective on the impression of women in the past. One may also notice the touches of blue to highlight the presence of
blooming flowers.This small detail hints at the presence of pleasant weather and season most suited for tea drinking.
Song Meng is an active member of the Singapore Art Society, Society of Chinese Artists and Siaw-Tao Chinese Seal Carving Calligraphy and Painting Society. She looks to forge an ancient elegance and sense of traditional Chinese literati in her paintings.
Characters Inscribed:
茶聚
戊戌春
宋梦