Ink and colours.  Illustration of the anecdote in the Buddhist canon of the immortal offering flowers.  Seated is the Buddha, now in the manifestation of a king, a female immortal is offering lotus flowers while four monks stand in attendance.  The signature Liu Sung-nien can be found behind the right heel of the foremost monk.  The brushwork is vigorous and taut, the gestures and configuration of the figures are natural and lively, especially the female immortal whose stance is elegant and refined.

Liu Sung-nien (12th - 13th century) was a native of Chien-tang in Chechiang Province.  He lived outsides the Ching-po Gate and people used to call him Liu Ching-po, or An-men Liu.  He became a student at the Imperial painting academy during the Chun-hsi era (1174 - 1190) and a tai-chao in the Shao-hsi era (1190 - 1194).  In the painting of landscape and figures he followed Chang Tun-li, achieving a marvelously lucid spirit, surpassing his master.  His work was considered first rank.  He presented a painting depicting the annual activities of farming and weaving to the Court of Ning-tsung (r.1195 - 1224) and was awarded the golden girdle.  His vital dates are not known.