Forest Penjing

The word penjing can be roughly translated from the Chinese as potted scenery. It is the original, older form of the art of bonsai. Penjing aims to embody entire natural scenes within individual works. Penjing is sometimes described as Chinese landscape painting in three dimensions. It aims to make viewers feel as though they were really in nature, contemplating the ripples on the surface of a lake or sheltering from the sun in the shade of a tree. It is an art form that is still, yet full of dynamic energy, embodying the natural beauty of trees, stones, and water. The book gives detailed guidance and instruction to those who wish to create a vivid miniature landscape of their own. It also describes the creation process of several outstanding examples of forest penjing, with accompanying photographs from each stage of their journey towards completion. Meant for beginners and experts alike, the information and techniques outlined in this book can help sow the seed of a new love for penjing or to refine the craft of a seasoned penjing designer.