Landscape of Wangchuan River

Ever wondered how Ming Dynasty artists connected with the past? 

The stone carving of the Wangchuan River Map, inspired by Guo Zhongshu’s work and tracing back to Wang Wei's style, exemplifies this link. Originally a scroll depicting ten scenes of idyllic homes and gardens, it reflects the traditional landscape composition. This echoes the simplicity of Daoist hermit Lu Hong’s work and life. Despite being offered a prestigious position by Emperor Xuanzong, Lu Hong chose a peaceful existence, teaching at his Thatched Cottage on Mount Song. Discover how these artists' humble lifestyles and philosophical beliefs shaped their timeless art.

Tang Dynasty (618-907) Wang Wei (so said). Stone Carving Painting. Height 31cm. Collection of the Princeton University Art Museum, USA.

This piece is compiled from the Chinese edition of Three Thousand Years of Chinese Painting by Foreign Languages Press and Yale University Press, translated by Chen Ying.