Complete Collection of Chinese Painting. 19. Qing Dynasty. Volume 1

Author: Ancient Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Appraisal Group
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-11-01
Features: The landscape painting schools of the Qing Dynasty flourished with great diversity, surpassing any other period in history. Among them, the mainstream of the early Qing painting scene was dominated by the [Four Wangs], who followed Dong Qichang and admired the Four Masters of the Yuan Dynasty. Their creations did not rely on direct observation but focused on imitating the artistic techniques and spirit of ancient masters. Their style was elegant and lush, achieving the pinnacle of both technical skill and formal beauty in landscape painting of that era. However, the strict formalism also constrained the expression of artists' emotions and artistic language. This volume selects eighty-five representative works by Wang Shimen and Wang Jian, totaling 215 illustrations, comprehensively reflecting the artistic styles of these two leaders of the orthodox Qing painting school, particularly their highly refined brushwork techniques and mastery of imitation. At the beginning of the volume is a special essay titled "An Overview of Qing Dynasty Painting," and at the end are illustrations with detailed descriptions of each work.