Artwork

Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10

Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10, by Fan Qi, unspecified, 1662
Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10, by Fan Qi, unspecified, 1662

Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10 is an unspecified painting by the Chinese Orthodox School artist Fan Qi. It dates from 1662 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

History & Provenance

No specific details regarding the original commission or intermediate ownership history prior to its museum acquisition are provided in the available records.

Created in 1662 in China, this painting is a work by the artist Fan Qi. It constitutes the tenth leaf of a larger collection titled Album of Miscellaneous Subjects. The artwork eventually entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is held under the accession number 1975.22.10.

No specific details regarding the original commission or intermediate ownership history prior to its museum acquisition are provided in the available records.

The artwork is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, located in Cleveland. It carries the accession number 1975.22.10 within the institution's records. The provided sources do not contain information regarding any specific exhibitions in which this leaf has been displayed.

Overview

Created in 1662 by the Qing‑dynasty painter Fan Qi, this small album leaf is part of a larger collection of varied subjects. It is currently in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The work presents a quiet natural tableau rendered in modest tones, inviting quiet contemplation.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on a pair of pale birds with elongated beaks perched upon slender branches, surrounded by foliage and modest blossoms. The restrained depiction of avian life and plant forms suggests an appreciation for the subtle rhythms of the natural world, a common theme in literati painting.

Technique & Style

Fan Qi employs fine, controlled brushwork that emphasizes softness over boldness. The palette is limited to subdued browns and muted greens, creating a harmonious visual balance. Delicate strokes outline the birds and leaves, while washes of ink convey atmospheric depth without overt detail.

Context

During the early Qing period, scholars often assembled albums that combined poetry, calligraphy, and painting. Fan Qi’s contribution reflects the era’s interest in modest, scholarly subjects rather than grand historical narratives, aligning with the literati ideal of personal expression through understated imagery.

Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 2
Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 2, Fan Qi

Artist & collection

Portrait of Fan Qi

Artist

Fan Qi

Chinese, 1616–after 1694

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10?

Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10 was painted by Fan Qi in 1662-01-01.

Where can I see Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10?

Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10 is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10?

Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10 is associated with Chinese Orthodox School.

Can I buy a print of Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10?

Museum-quality prints of Album of Miscellaneous Subjects, Leaf 10 are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.