The Night Revels of Han Xizai

Created by Gu Hongzhong during the Southern Tang period, this handscroll offers an intimate glimpse into a 10th-century nobleman’s private banquet.

The painting unfolds in five sequential scenes. We see minister Han Xizai hosting guests with music, dance, and conversation. While the surface depicts opulence and revelry, the psychological depth is extraordinary. Amidst the festivities, Han himself often appears pensive and detached.

This painting is invaluable for its detailed portrayal of period architecture, costumes, and musical instruments. More importantly, it demonstrates how classical Chinese art uses visual narrative and subtle facial cues to convey complex personal and political drama.