Artwork

Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan

Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan, by Li Zhaodao, unspecified
Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan, by Li Zhaodao, unspecified

Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan is an unspecified painting by the Song dynasty landscape artist Li Zhaodao. It is held in the collection of the National Palace Museum.

About this work

Overview

Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan, a 12th-century painting (c. 1150) by Li Zhaodao, portrays a pivotal moment in the life of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang. The work is part of the collection at the National Palace Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures Emperor Xuanzong's flight to Szechuan, an event precipitated by the An Lushan Rebellion. The serene landscape, however, contrasts with the turmoil of the historical context, suggesting a focus on the emperor's personal journey or the artist's interpretation of the event's emotional tone.

Technique & Style

Characterized by delicate brushstrokes and meticulous rendering of textures, the painting showcases Li Zhaodao's mastery of traditional Chinese landscape techniques. A muted color palette, dominated by greens, browns, and grays, enhances the overall sense of tranquility.

History & Provenance

Created around 1150 by Li Zhaodao, the painting is now housed at the National Palace Museum, though specific details of its journey to the museum are not provided in the available information.

Context

Painted during a time of cultural and artistic flourishing, Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan reflects the aesthetic values of its era, emphasizing harmony with nature. The choice of subject may also speak to the political and social reflections of the time, though the painting's calm belies the dramatic historical event it depicts.

Legacy

While specific influences or notable exhibitions of Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan are not detailed, its preservation in a prominent museum suggests recognition of its historical and artistic significance within Chinese painting heritage.

Road to Shu
Road to Shu, Yuan Yao

Artist & collection

Portrait of Li Zhaodao

Artist

Li Zhaodao

Li Zhaodao made grand ink-and-silk scrolls in the Tang dynasty, when emperors loved nature scenes.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan?

Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan was painted by Li Zhaodao.

Where can I see Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan?

Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan is held by National Palace Museum.

What movement is Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan?

Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan is associated with Song dynasty landscape.

Can I buy a print of Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan?

Museum-quality prints of Emperor Ming-huang's Flight to Szechuan are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.