Feng Jicai, an author and Han's friend, says: "The zodiac is a cultural totem for Chinese people. Everyone was born under an animal of the zodiac, and they will have certain emotional connections with that animal throughout their lives.

"It also reflects our ancestors' worship of nature in ancient times," Feng continues. "When looking at Han's work, every one of us can see a story concerning ourselves."

Ten artworks in the ongoing display will become part of the Palace Museum's permanent collection, Shan Jixiang, museum director, says.

"For artifacts from modern times," the director adds, "we only collect the most representative works of top masters."

Contact the writer at wangkaihao@chinadaily.com.cn