Artwork

Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters

Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters, by Mei Qing, unspecified, 1696
Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters, by Mei Qing, unspecified, 1696

Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters is an unspecified painting by the Qing dynasty painting artist Mei Qing. It dates from 1696 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Mei Qing, a prominent Chinese artist of the Qing Dynasty, created Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters in 1696. This painting exemplifies the period's emphasis on natural scenery, a genre in which Mei Qing was a significant figure. The work is now housed in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art, offering insight into the late 17th-century Chinese landscape tradition.

Subject & Meaning

The composition presents a tranquil natural setting, featuring several trees in the foreground and a modest structure nestled in the distance.

The composition presents a tranquil natural setting, featuring several trees in the foreground and a modest structure nestled in the distance. The landscape unfolds with rolling hills and valleys, rendered to evoke a sense of peace. Mei Qing's frequent journeys to the Yellow Mountain profoundly influenced his artistic vision, and this work reflects his deep engagement with the depiction of natural environments.

Technique & Style

Mei Qing employed a palette of subdued colors and applied paint with gentle, deliberate brushstrokes. This approach contributes to the painting's serene and contemplative atmosphere. The delicate rendering of foliage contrasts with the sturdy forms of tree trunks, while the distant building integrates subtly into the hilly terrain. The title suggests an engagement with historical precedents, though specific stylistic allusions are subtly integrated.

Context

Born in Xuancheng, Anhui Province, Mei Qing was a multifaceted artist known for his painting, calligraphy, and poetry. He adopted the style name Yuangong and used pseudonyms such as Mount Qu and Winter Hut. His artistic development was shaped by his tutelage under Wang Meng, and he maintained a significant friendship with the influential painter Shitao, situating him within a vibrant artistic network of the Qing era.

Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters
Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters, Mei Qing

Artist & collection

Portrait of Mei Qing

Artist

Mei Qing

Mei Qing (Chinese: 梅清; pinyin: Méi Qīng; Wade–Giles: Mei Ch'ing; ca. 1623–1697) was a Chinese landscape painter, calligrapher and poet active during the Qing Dynasty. Mei was born in Xuancheng, Anhui Province. His…

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 Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters?

Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters was painted by Mei Qing in 1690-01-01.

Where can I see Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters?

Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters?

Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters is associated with Qing dynasty painting.

Can I buy a print of Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters?

Museum-quality prints of Landscapes in Various Styles after Old Masters are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.