Oh, Moon Tickets, Moon Tickets! Aside from the first month a new book launches, this is the most crucial time for Moon Tickets. If you can support us, please do so generously, or you’ll miss this golden opportunity forever. I beg you!

In this piece titled Red Veil Lady, Zhang Daqian's pursuit of the Tang Dynasty style is displayed with breathtaking clarity, marking his second artistic phase.

Not only are the figures of the Tang Dynasty, but the brushwork itself echoes that era. This is gongbi (meticulous outline), which, in contrast to Daqian’s later pomo (ink splash) technique, naturally emphasizes the fluidity of the line and the delicate rendering of the figure’s details.

“Regardless of whether this painting is an original or a copy, we must acknowledge that originals must exist before copies can appear. Therefore, we can be certain that Daqian certainly painted such a work; it isn't some fabrication conjured from thin air.”

Seeing Fang Mingsheng nod, Wang Guan began his detailed critique: “We can observe that Daqian utilized the Tang Dynasty’s rounded and vigorous tixianmiao (iron-wire line technique) extensively in the Red Veil Lady, varying the thickness and color of the lines for different subjects to convey distinct textures.”

“All the contour lines in the painting have been traced at least twice. For example, the figure’s skin is first outlined in black ink and then overlaid with red lines, while the decorative patterns on the sash and cloak are first outlined in black ink and then traced with nijin (a mixture of mud and gold). This exquisite line drawing method does not emphasize swift, unrestrained skill, but rather makes the various elements appear more three-dimensional and prominent, lending the entire composition an ancient, elevated atmosphere.”

Zhou Lao deserves thanks; without his meticulous guidance, Wang Guan would never be able to articulate these points so fluently.

“The face is shaped like an oval pebble, with contours that are taut yet gracefully rounded. The complexion is delicate and flawless, the eyebrows long and curved, complemented by a cherry-like mouth—this is distinctly the beauty described in Bai Juyi’s Song of Everlasting Regret from the Tang Dynasty: a face like hibiscus and eyebrows like willow. Naturally, it is a classic representation of Tang painting, embodying a sense of profound, rich femininity, suggesting the prosperity of the society at that time, which allowed such an aura to flourish.”

Wang Guan continued: “However, since the subject is a chivalrous woman, she cannot possess the leisurely, languid elegance of the noblewomen depicted by Tang painters. Instead, she radiates vibrant heroism and robust vigor.”

“In retrospect, this is a major breakthrough. After the Qing Dynasty, most court ladies painted by artists tended to be fragile, Lin Daiyu-esque beauties. After the Republican era, discerning individuals felt this was detrimental and sought change. Thus, Daqian boldly broke through those limitations to successfully sculpt an image like the Red Veil Lady.”

As he spoke, Wang Guan expressed a touch of awe: “Why do people become renowned grand masters? The reason is invariably innovation and adaptation. Moving from imitating and studying the ancients, to establishing one’s own style, and finally pioneering an entire school—that is what defines a giant of the art world.”

“Wang Guan, I know Daqian is formidable; you don’t need to tell me that.”

However, Fang Mingsheng was showing impatience, stating frankly: “What I need to know now is whether this painting is Daqian’s authentic work or a forgery produced by Tan Jing or Tang An?”

“Vulgar,” Wang Guan muttered dismissively, clearly referring to Fang Mingsheng.

Hearing this, Shopkeeper Mi, standing nearby, was terrified, his heart hammering wildly. He knew how fearsome Fang Mingsheng could be and usually took great pains to placate him, terrified of causing offense. Yet, Wang Guan dared to be so ‘disrespectful’! Was he unafraid of incurring disaster?

In fact, Mi’s apprehension was well-founded; he cautiously glanced up to see Fang Mingsheng frown, clearly annoyed. Yet, the situation took an unexpected turn: Fang Mingsheng actually swallowed his anger and retorted, “How am I vulgar?”

“Not examining the quality of the painting, but only caring if it’s an authentic original—what else would that be but vulgar?”

Wang Guan declared with righteous indignation: “Even if the work is a copy, if it’s executed at a high level, decades have passed, and it still holds a certain collection value; you wouldn't lose out buying it. Conversely, if it’s an original but mediocre, a perfunctory piece, what is the point of collecting it?”

“Therefore, for a true collector, the artist’s fame and the item’s authenticity are merely references. The most crucial element is the inherent quality of the artwork itself.”

As he spoke, Wang Guan looked down with disdain: “Examine your own conscience: why exactly do you want to buy this item?”

“Uh…”

Fang Mingsheng was momentarily speechless. He couldn't possibly admit he wanted it because it was by Zhang Daqian, carried an exorbitant price tag, and would grant him significant prestige.

‘What is this young man’s background? He dressed me down so thoroughly, yet Fang Mingsheng didn't become enraged and ashamed?’ Shopkeeper Mi wondered internally, completely bewildered. Sensing Fang Mingsheng’s awkwardness, he quickly stepped forward to smooth things over, saying with a chuckle, “What this esteemed guest said truly strikes a chord with me. This painting is indeed magnificent, but I’m not entirely clear on why it is so good. Could the guest perhaps enlighten us further?”

“I won’t go into the figure’s shape, expression, composition, or color arrangement. I think the most brilliant aspect is the figure of the Red Veil Lady’s posture.”

Wang Guan accepted the pivot graciously and praised sincerely: “If you observe closely, you’ll notice the Red Veil Lady’s physique is perfectly symmetrical on both sides, yet her leaning torso and the curve of her long skirt combine to form an elongated arc. This not only breaks the rigidity of symmetrical composition but also accentuates the female form’s exquisite grace.”

“To my knowledge, Master Daqian was an opera enthusiast. I suspect he drew inspiration from Peking Opera, conceiving this pose—reminiscent of a huadan (female role) appearing on stage—for the Red Veil Lady. Beautiful, truly beautiful.”

After his admiration, Wang Guan turned back to Fang Mingsheng: “Boss Fang, if I were you, I wouldn't dwell on whether the piece is questionable. Seize the opportunity and buy it first, then study it at leisure. Otherwise, if someone else snags it, you’ll regret it terribly.”

“…That actually makes some sense.”

Fang Mingsheng pondered for a moment, then beckoned: “Shopkeeper Mi, let’s talk business.”

Shopkeeper Mi was pleasantly surprised by this request. Since authenticity had been brought into question, Fang Mingsheng still wanted to purchase it. If it turned out to be a fake later, at least Mi wouldn't be held solely responsible.

Of course, for this very reason, the painting’s price would certainly not be high—or at least, it couldn't match the price of a verified original. Thus, after some haggling, the two parties reached an agreement: the final transaction price was eight million eight hundred and eighty-eight thousand.

This price point was neither low nor exceptionally high.

If the work were proven to be an original, given Zhang Daqian’s fame and the quality of the piece, its market value would be at least fifty to sixty million. However, if it were a forgery, valuing it at seven or eight hundred thousand would be generous. The disparity between an original and a copy is this vast, which explains Fang Mingsheng’s prior hesitation.

But Fang Mingsheng was decisive once the choice was made. Without delay, he paid the sum and, under Shopkeeper Mi’s radiantly blooming smile, took possession of the painting before signaling Wang Guan to accompany him as they departed.

“To Old Man Zeng’s home in Chaozhou,” Fang Mingsheng told the driver after getting into the car, then eagerly asked, “Wang Guan, is the painting authentic?”

Fang Mingsheng hadn't forgotten that he had asked Wang Guan to decide whether he should buy it. Although Wang Guan hadn't explicitly confirmed its authenticity, his suggestion to purchase it implied a positive judgment. Fang Mingsheng’s swift action demonstrated his… considerable means.

After all, there wasn't much trust between him and Wang Guan. Had he not already been inclined to buy it, Wang Guan’s casual remarks wouldn't have spurred him to action. Therefore, Wang Guan’s hint was merely the final straw that gave Fang Mingsheng a reason to pay.

Wang Guan understood this perfectly and avoided answering directly, merely smiling: “If Boss Fang regrets it, I might be willing to take it off your hands.”

“Haha, I never said I regretted it,” Fang Mingsheng instantly relaxed, delight showing clearly on his face. “Hearing you say that, the painting must be genuine.”

“What I think is genuine might not necessarily be the real thing,” Wang Guan said casually, tossing a bucket of cold water on Fang Mingsheng’s enthusiasm.

Fang Mingsheng didn't mind; he excitedly unrolled the painting and began studying it closely. After a moment, he nodded with feigned gravity: “Indeed, as long as the piece is exquisite and beautiful, it matters little whether it's an original or a copy…”

Wang Guan couldn't help but scoff internally. Those words came too late; they were pure hindsight.

“Don’t assume I don’t understand,” Fang Mingsheng said, seeing Wang Guan’s expression. “Old Man Zeng told me that although Daqian sold paintings, his very best works were rarely created for money. If the right affinity wasn't there, Daqian wouldn't pick up the brush even for immense wealth. Even with introductions or entreaties, he often let things sit for half a year or more before agreeing to paint. But for his close friends, he’d paint anytime, and the gifts he gave friends were usually his finest creations.”

“Daqian himself often said that friendship was paramount, especially friendships with those who understood his calligraphy and painting. What is precious about money? If money were truly precious, I could be a millionaire right now.”

As he spoke, Fang Mingsheng showed a hint of admiration: “For true friends, Zhang Daqian not only complied with every request but often expended immense effort and time, completing masterpieces far exceeding his usual standard as gifts. For instance, famous works like the renowned Four Landscapes Screen and Ten Thousand Miles of the Yangtze River were gifts to his friends.”

“That is true,” Wang Guan conceded. “Some say that loyalty and affection were the purest beliefs in Zhang Daqian’s universe. That’s a summary made by later generations, but he certainly acted upon it.”

“Then I wasn't wrong,” Fang Mingsheng smiled slightly. “This painting was a gift from Daqian to a friend, so it must be a masterpiece.”

“Perhaps so.”

Wang Guan replied vaguely and focused his attention on the scenery outside the car window.

This changed Fang Mingsheng’s mood entirely. Could the painting really have an issue? If it does, why did he tell me to buy it? Is he deliberately trying to trick me? We aren't close friends; it seems plausible he’d try to set me up. Yet, his earlier offer to buy it back didn't sound like deceit… Why is he so cunning for someone so young?

While Fang Mingsheng was mentally wrestling with these thoughts, the car sped toward Chaozhou, slowly entering a high-end residential area in the city center, finally pulling to a stop before a villa entrance…

(To be continued.)