The Art of Trunk Curvature in Penjing
Below is an introduction to the knowledge of Penjing creation for netizens, focusing on the art of trunk curvature in Penjing. Next, the editor will introduce it to the netizens.
The Chinese nation's understanding of lines deems 'curvature as beauty, straightness as lack of scenery; dependency as charm, correctness as lack of posture; spacing as allure, density as lack of grace.' Therefore, most trunk materials selected for Penjing creation feature curvature. 'Curvature' here refers to significant changes in curvature that purely comply with natural growth patterns, not artificially created shapes like two bends, square turns, or dragon encircling pillars. Although curvature is common in tree trunks, it is not easy to find materials that meet the aesthetics of shaping. In traditional Chinese painting, paths are often set in an 'S' shape, which provides a sense of concealment and revelation, with a soft, sinuous charm; the 'Zi' shape reveals a combination of concealment and revelation, showcasing a forceful and vigorous aspect. In花鸟 paintings with branched compositions, one often sees '3' shaped branches, '5' shaped branches, double 'S' shaped branches, interconnected '7' shaped branches, and '6' shaped circular branches, all of which are considered to be beautiful curvilinear shapes. The selection of materials for curved trunks is based on the principle of the beauty of curves, adapted flexibly through practical activities.
The tree species suitable for selection include: Five-needle Pine, Huashan Pine, Black Pine, Money松, Huangshan Pine, June Snow, Elm, Serrata, Podocarpus macrophyllus, Orange wood, Wolfberry, Hollyhock, Redbud, Japanese Boxwood, glossy privet, Dwarf Chinese Juniper, Thuja orientalis, Pomegranate, etc.
1. 'S' shaped trunk curvature
This is a relatively common style of Penjing. The entire trunk shape is like Tai Chi, with hidden strength within softness, showing a combination of gentle curves and masculine beauty.
2. 'Zi' shaped trunk curvature
This style features a stiff and upright trunk, with the right half of the branch飘落 near the water, creating a risky yet stable shape. The exposed root claws anchor the trunk's momentum, resembling the posture of a dancer.
3. '5' shaped trunk curvature
This style has a unique appearance, combining the styles of a branch hanging over a cliff and a horizontal trunk. The trunk is straight and angular, exuding masculinity, while the top is softly curved, adding a graceful feminine touch. The left branch extends like a cliff and echoes the top, with the root claws firmly stabilizing the entire trunk, creating a lively and dynamic shape that is rare among curved trunks.
4. '3' shaped trunk curvature
This style alternates between rigid and flexible, with the top branch matching the momentum of the slanted trunk. The high-drag branch gives the shape a sense of flying and moon-chasing, making it a common conventional style.
5. Double 'S' shaped trunk curvature
This style features a trunk that twists like two dragons dancing, with supporting branches like dragon claws, exuding a strong and domineering aura. The ancient and powerful trunk accumulates infinite strength, ready to launch. This type of curved trunk is a superior material, very rare.
6. Large arc-shaped trunk curvature
This style has a soft and smooth lower curve and a stiff upper part, with the entire trunk in a reverse position. The shape is unified with a '3' shaped branch at the top, and the tip extends through the trunk, compensating for the lower空虚. The top and the direction of the trunk's momentum are the same, creating a unity of form and rhythm, fully showcasing the original character of the trunk.
7. 'S' and 'Zi' shaped interconnected trunk curvature
This type of trunk is quite common in pine and cypress species. The twisted trunk is as strong as a dragon, with branches extending left and right, making the canopy complete and well-proportioned, a very mature style.
Curved trunk shapes are ever-changing, and as long as one applies skill according to the material and is good at thinking, it is possible to create completely different works.
That concludes the comprehensive explanation of the art of trunk curvature in Penjing. I hope it can act as a brick to attract jade and solve your problems with green plants.