Verses from the “Deer Cry Banquet” (鹿鸣宴诗句) pays homage to one of the most revered poems in Chinese classical literature — Deer Cry (《鹿鸣》), from the Xiao Ya (小雅) section of the Book of Songs (《诗经》). Executed in Seal Script (篆书), an ancient style that evokes solemnity and historical gravitas, the work revives the poetic imagery and ceremonial tradition of Confucian ritual culture.

“呦呦鹿鸣，食野之苹。我有嘉宾，鼓瑟吹笙。”
“The gentle cry of deer as they graze in the wild —
I have honored guests; zithers and flutes sound in welcome.”

The poem opens with a serene image of deer grazing in the open fields, their calls echoing gently — setting a pastoral and tranquil tone. It then transitions to a noble banquet, where music is performed to ceremoniously receive esteemed guests. For centuries, these verses have symbolised civility, refinement, and the Confucian ideal of respectful hospitality.

Inscribed vertically on the left, Shen notes that this work was created in the mid-autumn of the year of Xin Chou (2021), in response to an invitation to transcribe these classical verses. The accompanying handwritten note by Shen further illuminates the intent behind the work:

Shen’s Note (in Chinese):

《诗经·小雅·鹿鸣》
呦呦鹿鸣，食野之苹。我有嘉宾，鼓瑟吹笙。

以在原野吃草欢叫的一群鹿儿的场景为起兴，来表达有至要宾客来时以音乐表演迎接的隆重场景，是一首宴会宾客的乐歌。

Translation:

From the Book of Songs – Xiao Ya – “Deer Cry”
The gentle cries of deer grazing in the wild begin the poem with a peaceful natural scene. This imagery is used as a prelude to express the grandeur of welcoming important guests with music and ceremony.
It is a joyful ode to the art of hospitality — an ancient banquet song written to honour and celebrate the arrival of treasured guests.

Blending poetic grace with refined brushwork, this artwork is not only a study in classical script but also a timeless evocation of music, nature, and the spirit of respectful gathering. Through ink and rhythm, it invites the viewer to witness an ancient cultural moment where elegance, harmony, and ritual converge.