In Chinese poetry, women's beauty is often compared to a Peony. The flower was adored by the nobility and was always prominent in the emperor’s garden.

Historically, China, wealthy men could take many wives. The emperor could have hundreds of wives. One woman might temporarily be the king’s favorite, but it never lasts long. With age, her beauty fades like a peony. My painting presents the paradox of the Peony: beautiful and desirable, but doomed to rejection. Peonies symbolize wealth and faithful love.