In the multitude of flowers and trees, four have been chosen by the Chinese scholars to personify a noble gentlemen. They are honorably called: "Four Gentlemen" by Chinese painters. Sturdiness and chastity have always been attributed to the Plum tree, which often blossoms in severely cold weather. Each of the other three signifies a noble virtue too. Despite loneliness and negligence, the Orchid still breathes a subtle fragrance in the most deserted valley, while the Bamboo grows upright and the Chrysanthemum stand the attacks of frost.

It is generally admitted that the technique of "Four Gentlemen" painting is the foundation of Chinese ink painting. If you know how to draw a Plum tree you may do all other trees, and the Orchid and Bamboo provide a good foundation for drawing all sort of leaves. The Chrysanthemum is a good example for flower painting, for it has clean simple petals and symmetrical leaves. Every beginner of Chinese painting is therefore advised to do the "Four Gentlemen" since this would provide the foundation for future studies in Chinese painting