Man Lung Penjing | Penjing in Depth

The Balance Of Trunk And Branches

To note the relative size between the trunk and branches and the balance between their density and sparsity.

Picture shows the bonsai Segeretia theezans cultivated by Mr. Hung Tai Choi, a LingnanArtistic Pot Plant expert. It illustrates the technique of the "Grow and Clip" process applied to pot plants which produces strong branches with an aged appearance like those I painting. It is recommended to the readers as a study in the "Grow and Clip" technique.

(Please click on the thumbnails for the enlarged view of the pictures.)

Without the foliage we are able to observe the size of the root system, the branches and trunk. This allows us to judge whether their size and distribution are balanced and whether their density and sparsity are in good order. We may also judge whether the overall form of the plant would convey a picture of minuteness yet present a sense of largeness. By using the pruning method of "nurturing the branches and cutting the trunk", the root, the branches and trunk may be manipulated to look magnificent and aged. This is the basic characteristic of the Lingnan School in penjing creation.

Two of the plants shown in the pictures have in fact withered. Yet, it may be perceived and appreciated as a snow scene, indeed another interesting presentation.

(To observe the penjing at different angles, please touch the pictures.)