Overview of the Scroll

Attributed to ​Jin Tingbiao (金廷标), a Qing Dynasty court painter, Plum Blossom Exploration Scroll (《采梅图》 or 《探梅图》) depicts visitors admiring plum blossoms along a riverside during their peak bloom. Measuring a delicate ​7 cm in height and 128 cm in length (主画尺寸), this handscroll was crafted as a portable treasure for Emperor Qianlong’s personal enjoyment. The scroll opens with the inscription “香巖咫尺” (“Fragrant Cliffs at Hand”), evoking the immersive aroma of plum blossoms that permeates the scene

. It is now housed in the ​National Palace Museum, Taipei

​Qianlong’s Colophon and Poem

Emperor Qianlong appended a poem titled Jin Tingbiao’s Plum Village Miniature Scroll (《金廷标梅村小卷》) to the scroll:

“Winding paths lead through Plum Village;
Travelers’ senses are filled with the fragrance of blossoms.
To grasp the artist’s divine inspiration,
Unfurl this scroll—alas, too swiftly it ends.”
(壬寅仲春御題, Spring 1782)

The poem praises Jin Tingbiao’s skill while lamenting the scroll’s brevity, reflecting Qianlong’s fondness for its intimate charm

​Artist’s Signature and Background

The scroll bears Jin Tingbiao’s humble dedication: “臣金廷標恭繪” (“Respectfully painted by your servant, Jin Tingbiao”)

. Jin Tingbiao (c. 18th century), styled Shikui (士揆), hailed from Wucheng (modern Huzhou, Zhejiang). A second-generation painter trained by his father Jin Hong, he gained imperial favor in 1757 by presenting a White-Robed Luohan sketch during Qianlong’s southern tour, securing his position in the court’s painting academy

Artistic Significance

• ​Miniature Mastery: The scroll’s 7 cm height demanded extraordinary precision, earning it the title “人间奇绝” (“a marvel among mortals”)
• ​Thematic Depth: Beyond plum blossoms, the scene metaphorically celebrates resilience and elegance—qualities Qianlong associated with both the flower and Jin’s artistry
• ​Imperial Context: As a court painter, Jin blended folk aesthetics (e.g., lively figures, rustic bridges) with refined techniques, aligning with Qianlong’s taste for narrative-rich works

Seals and Mounting:

• Qianlong’s seals: “八徵耄念之寶” (“Treasure of the Octogenarian’s Reflections”), “古稀天子” (“Seventy-Year-Old Son of Heaven”)
• Mounted on silk brocade with ivory fasteners, exemplifying Qing luxury