pic01493 Yongjun Chen

The artwork presents a scene dominated by autumnal foliage and two waterfowl. The composition is vertically oriented, framed within a dark border that isolates the central imagery. Here we see a dense arrangement of stylized maple leaves in varying shades of ochre, brown, and gold, creating a textured backdrop. These leaves appear to cascade downwards, filling most of the pictorial space.
Two ducks are positioned centrally, their forms rendered with meticulous detail. Their plumage exhibits a pattern of black, white, and grey markings, carefully delineated to suggest feathers and form. One duck is depicted looking upwards, while the other gazes forward, creating a subtle dynamic within the group. The birds appear nestled amongst the leaves, suggesting a sense of harmony between creature and environment.
The color palette is restrained, relying heavily on earth tones that evoke feelings of warmth and decay associated with autumn. A muted grey-green wash underlies the foliage, softening the overall effect and contributing to a gentle atmosphere. A small inscription in red and black ink appears near the upper left corner; its meaning remains opaque without further contextual information.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of natures cyclical processes – the beauty of decline and renewal inherent in the changing seasons. The ducks’ presence introduces an element of life persisting within this environment of falling leaves, hinting at resilience and continuity. The careful rendering of detail suggests a reverence for natural forms, while the limited color range contributes to a contemplative mood. The compositions balance and symmetry lend it a sense of serenity and order despite the implied transience of the scene.