Who painted The Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion?

The Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion was painted by Tang Yin in 1492.

Where can I see The Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion?

The Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion is held by Art Institute of Chicago.

What movement is The Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion?

The Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion is associated with Northern Renaissance.

Artwork

The Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion

Tang Yin , 1492

The Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion is an unspecified painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Tang Yin. It dates from 1492 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

The Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion, painted by Tang Yin in 1492, is a fan‑shaped work now in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Its composition unfolds across a curved upper edge and a straight lower edge, presenting a tranquil riverside scene populated by figures in traditional dress.

Subject & Meaning

The image shows a group assembled beside water, some standing on the bank, others seated on rocks or beneath trees. The gathering evokes a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere, suggesting a leisurely social or literary event typical of Chinese garden culture.

Technique & Style

Executed with muted pigments and gentle brushwork, the painting employs soft washes that blend figures into the surrounding landscape of trees and distant mountains. The fan format allows a panoramic view, while the delicate handling of line and color reinforces the work’s calm mood.

History & Provenance

Created during the late Ming period, the piece has remained attributed to Tang Yin, a noted scholar‑artist of the era. It entered the Art Institute of Chicago’s holdings through acquisition in the 20th century, where it is displayed as part of the museum’s Asian art collection.

明　佚名　舊傳李公麟　蘭亭修禊圖　團扇|Gathering at the Orchid Pavilion, After Li Gonglin

Artist & collection

Artist

Tang Yin

Tang Yin (Chinese: 唐寅; pinyin: Táng Yín; Cantonese Yale: Tong Yan; 6 March 1470 – 7 January 1524), courtesy name Bohu (伯虎) and Ziwei (子畏), was a Chinese painter, calligrapher, and poet of the Ming dynasty period.