The Life and Art of Gu Hengbo Gu Hengbo, also known by her art name Gu Hengbo or as Xu Shanchi and Xu Zhizhu, was a Chinese Gējì, poet, and painter. Born near Nanjing, she was celebrated for her beauty and her significant talent in both poetry and painting. She was recognized as one of the Eight Beauties of Qinhuai and was highly regarded for her skill in painting orchids and landscapes, developing a style that did not follow the methods of previous generations. In her Tower Meilou in the Qinhuai district, she hosted a famous literary salon that attracted various guests. Beyond her visual art…