Year Of The Rat

by Zu Tianli

Title

Year Of The Rat

Artist

Zu Tianli

Medium

Painting - Watercolor On Watercolor Paper

Description

It is unclear exactly when in ancient times the Chinese began to use the Sheng Xiao, or lunar horoscope, to predict the character and fate of a person born in a given year. However, we do know that, even today, the horoscope remains an integral part of everyday life for many people in China and elsewhere around the world. Regarded by many Westerners as a combination of mathematical complexities and symbolic tradition. The 12 fastest competitors would receive a place on the calendar according to the order in which they finished. The last stage of the race involved crossing a large river. The rat convinced the kind-hearted ox to carry him across and, as they neared the riverbank, the rat leapt from the ox's back onto land. Through his trickery, the rat succeeded in winning the race and capturing first place in the calendar. Perhaps this explains why those born during the Year of the Rat are said to be impatient and somewhat opportunistic. People whose birth years are represented by the rat are also believed to be cheerful, sentimental and devoted to their families. Recent years of the Rat are: 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008 and 2020.

A native of Beijing, Zu Tianli developed her love of painting at an early age. Specializing in folk art at China's Central Institute of Art, she graduated in 1987 and began her career by working in the editorial department of China Photography magazine. Known for her colorful brushwork and captivating style, Zu Tianli is perhaps most famous for the spectacular design she created for China's Year of the Dragon stamp issued in January 1988.

Please note the "Fine Art America" watermark will not appear on the painting or any print reproduction.

Artwork Copyright © 1987 Wind River Studios Holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved under United States and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, or otherwise exploit the Artwork in any way. Any sale of the physical original does not include or convey the Copyright or any right comprised in the Copyright. WRSH Stock Number XB11300

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April 5th, 2022

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