Misty Bamboo on a Distant Moutain

           In Chinese art, particularly in traditional Chinese painting, four plants, namely the  plum blossom, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthe mum, are refered to among as the "Four Gentlemen", symbolizing esteemed characteristics and morals pertaining to junzi, or  gentlemen in Confucianism.
          For instance, plum blossoms usually blooms in winter or early spring. It doesn´t compete with others flowers for beauty, but flourishes when other plants are depressed by colder weather.. Therefore, it´s symbol of perseverance and self-control.
          Meanwhile, the orchid is regarded as noble and pure, and the chysanthemum as dignified and indomitable.
          The bamboo is unique though. The plant is admired for its straight stalks and green color even in winter. (...)
           Thoughout his artistic career, Zheng Xie (1693-1765) painted three subjects almost exclusively : namely, bamboo, rock and orchid. He once called himself the reincarnation of the "all-season  orchid, evergreen bamboo and everlasting rock".
           (...)
Texto de Yun Shan Yan Zhu Tu  
                Sunday 13 November 2016 Shanghai Daily 

Misty Bamboo on a Distant  Moutain