“Dawn” originated from an old persimmon tree in Zuoquan County, Shanxi Province, capturing the vibrant red persimmons against the fallen leaves. Inspired by life in the Taihang Mountains, Li Qun enriched the composition with three colour plates upon returning to Beijing. The scene portrays a farmer rising early on a donkey, constructing a pergola, resonating with the working class. Exhibited in 1964, the painting drew rural visitors who admired its vitality and symbolism. Titled “Dawn” it symbolises hope and inspiration. Displayed in exhibitions in Leningrad, Moscow, and the 1958 Socialist Art Exhibition in Moscow, a print also resides in the collection of the British Art Gallery.
Childhood 1912-1930
A village childhood Li Qun’s roots trace back to a quaint mountain village, an enclave characterised by a mere six courtyards and ten households in its nascent years. This hamlet, situated in Lingshi County, Shanxi Province, earned its identity as Hao Jia Zhang. Positioned to the east of Fenhe River,