Solely Devoting One’s Heart to Xu Beihong, the Master from Jiangnan : Revisiting the Friendship Between Qi Baishi and Xu Beihong

Qi Baishi (齊白石) and Xu Beihong (徐悲鴻) were two eminent artists who profoundly influenced the cultural and artistic landscape of the Republic of China era. Their interactions and mutual respect have been widely celebrated, with stories of their connection enduring from their time to the present. This study revisits the friendship between Qi Baishi and Xu Beihong, aiming to disentangle exaggerated or embellished narratives and refocus on the verifiable facts and dynamics of their bond. It attempts to analyze how these two legendary figures came to know each other, how their relationship evolved, and what their renowned interaction as ‘rivals’ truly entailed.<br/> From mid-November 1928 to early 1929, Xu Beihong, at the invitation of Li Shizeng (李石曾), assumed the position of dean at the National Beiping Art School. During this period, Xu first met Qi Baishi and recognized him as an artist with “solid painting foundations,” “profound creativity,” and “versatility.” Xu, deeply valuing Qi’s talent, extended three invitations for Qi to join the school as a professor of traditional Chinese painting. Over time, their professional collaboration grew into a deep personal friendship. Xu Beihong and Qi Baishi became confidants on two levels: as close friends in their personal lives and as artistic companions united by shared pursuits.