Li Fuyuan, now in his seventies, is a Chinese artist who learned painting from Wu Guanzhong since he has entered Beijing Art Academy in 1957. Animals are Li's favorite subject for his paintings, especially tigers, leopards and goats. The animals are seldom on their own, instead, they are often painted in a family or a group under Li's brushstrokes, and this always adds warmth and tenderness to the scenes. Art critic Xia Shuoqi once commented, "The uniqueness in Li's artworks comes from his distinctive style and strong character. Goat, the theme of this Five Goats (Lot 1267) symbolizes auspicious in Chinese culture as their Chinese characters look alike. The Chinese character "goat", with the meaning of fortune, is interchangeable with "auspicious" in the old days. The shape of goats in this painting is simple and unique which brings out a sense of tameness. Layers and layers of ink and color, with skilled ink wash techniques create dynamics and spaces. Li expresses his feelings towards life and nature through the use of rich colors and ebullient lines, which makes this folk art piece full of life and energy.