Who painted Bamboo, Rock, and Tall Tree?

Bamboo, Rock, and Tall Tree was painted by Ni Zan in 1304.

Where can I see Bamboo, Rock, and Tall Tree?

Bamboo, Rock, and Tall Tree is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Bamboo, Rock, and Tall Tree?

Bamboo, Rock, and Tall Tree is associated with Yuan dynasty literati painting.

Artwork

Bamboo, Rock, and Tall Tree

Ni Zan , 1304

Bamboo, Rock, and Tall Tree is an unspecified painting by the Yuan dynasty literati painting artist Ni Zan. It dates from 1304 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1978.65
Credit line: Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund

About this work

Overview

Bamboo, Rock, and Tall Tree is a painting by Ni Zan, a key figure in the Yuan dynasty's literati movement, created around 1304.

Subject & Meaning

The painting presents a serene landscape featuring a tall tree, bamboo, and rocks, embodying the literati ideals of simplicity and restraint. The sparse composition and barren trees convey a sense of calmness and contemplation.

Technique & Style

Ni Zan's use of simple, expressive brushstrokes and muted colors creates a sense of depth and texture, drawing the viewer's eye through the composition. The painting reflects the artist's emphasis on personal expression over detailed representation.

Context

The work is characteristic of the yuan literati movement, which valued scholarly ideals and refined ink paintings. Ni Zan's style, marked by simplicity and restraint, was influential in this cultural context.

Artist & collection

Artist

Ni Zan

Ni Zan (simplified Chinese: 倪瓒; traditional Chinese: 倪瓚; Wade–Giles: Ni2 Tsan4; 1301–1374) was a Chinese painter during the Yuan and early Ming periods.