Ink and watercolour on paper, hanging scroll. Featuring rams. Signed and attr. Liu Kui Ling (Chinese, 1885-1967) and inscribed with one artist seal. 64 x 45 cm. iu Kuiling was born in the suburbs of Tianjin. His proximity to the countryside enabled him to observe animals and insects closely. He specialized in painting animals. His flowers and rocks were done in the boneless method without outlines. He was skillful with meticulous details. Liu also learned the concepts of dimension and space from Western painting, as well as how to paint with rich, clear colors. He excelled in drawing flowers, insects and animals. His animal paintings are vivid and lively in their gestures and textures. In his later years, Liu served as Vice Chairman of the Tanjin branch of the Chinese Artists' Association.

All authorship of items in this catalog are described according to the following terms:

By [Artist Name] : In our opinion, the work is by the artist.

Attributed to [Artist Name] : In our opinion, the work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

In the manner of [Artist Name] : In our opinion, the work was executed by an unknown hand, but was designed deliberately to emulate the style of the artist.

After [Artist Name] : In our opinion, the work was executed by an unknown hand, but is a deliberate copy of a known work by the artist.

Circle of [Artist Name] : In our opinion, a work of the period of the artist showing his influence, closely associated with the artist but not necessarily his pupil.

Follower of [Artist Name]: In our opinion, a work by a pupil or a follower of the artist (not necessarily a pupil).

American, 19th century : In our opinion, this work was executed by an unknown hand, and can only be identified by origin (i.e., region, period).

Bears signature : In our opinion, the signature on the artwork may be spurious.
Apocryphal : Of doubtful authenticity.