Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "A Sad Hong Across Millennia: Commemorating the 130th Anniversary of Xu Beihong's Birth" showcases over 70 works, including his famous pieces "The Foolish Old Man Removes the Mountains" and "Nine Fang Gao," highlighting Xu Beihong's contributions to Chinese art and his deep national sentiment during times of crisis [3][4]. Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition is co-hosted by the Guangdong Museum of Art and the Xu Beihong Memorial Museum, featuring significant works that reflect Xu Beihong's artistic journey and his response to national challenges [3]. - A notable piece in the exhibition is a giant granite relief titled "The Foolish Old Man Removes the Mountains," which is based on Xu Beihong's representative work and emphasizes the strength and determination of the human spirit [3]. Group 2: Artistic Themes - Xu Beihong's works often draw from traditional Chinese stories, aiming to revive the national spirit through art, with "The Foolish Old Man Removes the Mountains" serving as a prime example of this approach [4]. - His painting "Nine Fang Gao," which depicts a horse, symbolizes the desire for recognition and the struggle for talent to find its place, reflecting Xu Beihong's own experiences after returning to China [5]. Group 3: Historical Context - During the difficult years of the Anti-Japanese War, Xu Beihong created works that not only conveyed deep meanings but also expressed national sentiments through various subjects, becoming a vivid representation of the national spirit [6]. - His artistic evolution is marked by a shift from romanticism to realism, particularly in his depictions of lions, which evolved to reflect changing national sentiments and personal emotions [8]. Group 4: Symbolism in Art - Xu Beihong's portrayal of horses, particularly in "Galloping Horses," symbolizes the indomitable spirit of the Chinese people during the war, showcasing their resilience and courage [9]. - The various animals depicted in his works serve as reflections of his personality and the cultural zeitgeist, emphasizing the importance of integrating contemporary themes into artistic expression [9].