Cheng Xiang-pu (1892-1963), also known as Jian-shui, was a descendant of the Cheng family. He specialized in painting the “Four Gentlemen” and was close friends with fellow artists Fan Yao-geng(1877-1950) and Chou Wei-chin(1882-[date unknown]), collectively known as the “Three Friends of Pine, Bamboo, and Plum.”

  

This piece, likely created as a birthday offering, features expressive brushwork and strong contrasts of ink and wash. It depicts symbols of longevity such as pine trees, cranes, and lingzhi mushrooms.