Chinese Painting on Silk, "Hundred Butterflies and Peonies", by Zhang Xiongxie (1803-1886) after Bi

44-1/2" x 23-1/2" image Traditional silk artwork, hand painted in polychrome pigments depicting hundred butterflies and blossoming peonies bush by Zhang Xiongxie; calligraphy inscribed and sealed from right to left: Zi Xiang (the author's art name), Zhang Xiongxie (1803-1886, a renowned painter of the late Qing Dynasty), seal "Treasure of the Emperor's study room", seal "Emperor Qianlong's Treasure", seal of Hall of Three Rarities, seal "Yi Zisun" (Blessing to offspring), Chang Le (Long-term happiness); "As the colorful light comes down (from heaven) to the mortal world, they (the peonies) look like dancing fairies wearing magnificent dresses. Alas, people of any country could be overwhelmed by their comeliness and gorgeousness. How beautiful they are in such a fascinating spring! Longxi (present-day Western Gansu Province, China)", after Bian JIngzhao (a renowned painter of the Ming Dynasty). Matted with gilt fillet and framed under glass in carved gilt wood frame, overall 56" x 35-1/2"; old "J.J.Gillespie Company Fine Art Galleries" paper label attached on the back. Provenance: old private collection, Pittsburgh, PA. View and Bid on AspireAuctions.com