Artwork
芥子園畫傳|Study Pavilion and Plum Trees: Page from The Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting
芥子園畫傳|Study Pavilion and Plum Trees: Page from The Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting is an ink print by Li Cheng. It is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This print is a page from The Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting, a renowned painting guide.
About this work
Overview
This print is a page from The Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting, a renowned painting guide. It is a polychrome woodblock print on paper, created using ink and color.
Subject & Meaning
The scene depicts a serene mountain landscape with a small house on a slope, its occupant visible through the open door. Jagged rocks and bare trees surround the dwelling, evoking a sense of stillness.
Technique & Style
The artist employed cross-hatching, a technique involving layered lines to convey texture and depth, giving the flat ink a three-dimensional appearance. The trees are rendered with swift, sketchy strokes, contributing to the overall delicate effect.
History & Provenance
The print is held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, attributed to Li Cheng.
Artist & collection
Artist
Li Cheng painted towering pine forests and quiet riverside scenes that feel both ancient and alive.
