Artwork
Su Dongpo Riding a Donkey
Su Dongpo Riding a Donkey is an unspecified painting by the Nanga artist Reietsu. It is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 2015.479
- Credit line
- Gift from the Collection of George Gund III
About this work
Overview
Created in 1602 by the Japanese painter Reietsu, Su Dongpo Riding a Donkey is an ink painting in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The work portrays a solitary figure astride a donkey, captured in a moment of forward motion, against a lightly washed background that hints at space without detailing a setting.
Subject & Meaning
The rider, identified by his wide-brimmed hat and flowing robe, is traditionally associated with the celebrated Song‑dynasty scholar Su Shi, known as Su Dongpo. By placing him on a donkey rather than a horse, the image suggests humility and a modest, itinerant lifestyle, echoing the poet’s own reputation for wandering and simple living.
Technique & Style
Reietsu employs bold, sweeping brushstrokes that define the donkey’s lifted fore‑legs and the tilt of its head. The composition relies on minimal line work and restrained shading, allowing the figure and animal to convey kinetic energy with few details. The light, almost monochrome background provides contrast while maintaining the painting’s overall simplicity.
History & Provenance
The painting emerged in the early Edo period, a time when Japanese artists often revisited Chinese literary themes. After remaining in private hands for several centuries, it entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection in the late 20th century, where it has been displayed as part of the museum’s Asian art holdings.
Artist & collection
