This exquisite mid-century Chinese painting is executed in the traditional Lingnan School style, masterfully blending classical Chinese ink techniques with a vibrant, nature-inspired palette. The composition centers on a brilliant cluster of blooming chrysanthemums, with two large, multi-layered yellow blossoms serving as the focal point alongside smaller white florals clustered near the dark green foliage at the base. To the right, a slender branch extends outwards, supporting a delicately rendered, bright turquoise-blue praying mantis perched precisely atop a white flower bud. A weathered tree trunk sweeps across the upper-left background, complemented by sparse branches bearing vivid coral-red leaves that provide a striking contrast to the muted, textured olive-green and gold-toned paper ground.

The work beautifully highlights Hui Chi Mau's celebrated mastery of traditional brushwork, balance, and his ability to capture insects and flora with crisp, lifelike precision. The lower right corner features the artist's handwritten calligraphy signature, followed by a carved red ink artist seal stamp, with his Westernized signature "MAU" cleanly added just below. The artwork is professionally presented within a double matting system featuring a warm coral inner border and an off-white outer mat, securely housed under glass in a classic bamboo-style gilded wood frame.

Specifications

• Medium: Ink and Color on Paper

• Signature/Markings: Signed with artist calligraphy, red seal stamp, and "MAU" ink marking lower right

• Dimensions: 19 x 23 inches

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The pigments remain exceptionally vivid and show no signs of fading or flaking. The paper ground is flat and stable with no visible foxing, tearing, or moisture damage. The matting is clean, and the faux-bamboo gilt frame is structurally sound with only negligible edge wear.

• Framing: Matted under glass in a gilded bamboo-style wood frame

Hui Chi Mau Chinese painting Lingnan School flower and bird ink and color chrysanthemums praying mantis insect Asian American art twentieth century master painter watercolor aesthetic framed.