Artwork
Su Wu the Shepherd
Su Wu the Shepherd is an unspecified painting by the Chinese Orthodox School artist Min Zhen. It dates from 1788 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1985.71.10
- Credit line
- John L. Severance Fund
About this work
The artist, Min Zhen, lived through hardship too, orphaned young, he painted this late in life, when his own struggles had shaped his style.
A man in a tattered robe stands alone on a rocky hill, holding a long staff. Sheep graze around him under a pale sky. The scene feels quiet, almost forgotten.
This painting tells the story of Su Wu, a Chinese official sent into exile for nineteen years. Instead of giving up, he herded sheep until he could return home. The artist, Min Zhen, lived through hardship too, orphaned young, he painted this late in life, when his own struggles had shaped his style.
To see more work from this time, look up china, qing dynasty (1644-1911).
Overview
Su Wu the Shepherd is a painting by Min Zhen, created in the later years of his life. It depicts a solitary figure on a rocky hill, surrounded by grazing sheep.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates the story of Su Wu, a Chinese official who endured nineteen years of exile by herding sheep. The scene conveys a sense of quiet resilience in the face of hardship.
Technique & Style
Min Zhen's style in this work reflects the influence of artists like Huang Shen, known for their distinctive approaches to figure painting. The use of a pale sky and a solitary figure creates a contemplative atmosphere.
History & Provenance
Min Zhen, orphaned at a young age, was trained by Tang Yin, a prominent figure in the imperial porcelain workshops. This connection may have allowed Min to spend time in Beijing, where he developed his mature style.
Context
The painting is a product of the Qing dynasty, a period marked by significant cultural and artistic developments in China.
Artist & collection
Artist
Min Zhen was a Chinese painter and seal carver born in Nanchang, Jiangxi, who spent most of his life in Hubei.
![Reeds and Geese, by Yishan Yining [Issan Ichinei]](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/yishan-yining-issan-ichinei--reeds-and-geese--5f360303c5a40d05-w320.webp)
