Ancient Chinese saw flowers as a microcosm of the great universe, allowing them a glimpse into the rules of nature. The perspective inspired artists living centuries ago to make flower-themed paintings as a way to examine the relationships between men and other living things and the environment.

An exhibition now at the Yan Huang Art Museum in Beijing shows more than 130 paintings of the classical flower-and-bird genre, dated from the mid-Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Also on show are prints and folk art pieces featuring flowers.

The exhibition runs until June 27.