Artwork
Album of Landscapes: Leaf 6
Album of Landscapes: Leaf 6 is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Wang Gai. It dates from 1677 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Album of Landscapes: Leaf 6 is a Chinese landscape painting executed in 1677 by Wang Gai. The work is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection and measures a modest size typical of album leaves, presenting a tranquil river scene rendered in a restrained palette.
Subject & Meaning
The composition depicts a small boat drifting on still water amid gently rolling, mist‑shrouded hills. Three figures occupy the vessel—a standing passenger at the stern, a reclined figure, and a seated individual near the bow—suggesting a leisurely journey or a moment of quiet contemplation within nature.
Technique & Style
Wang Gai employs swift, economical brushwork that conveys the softness of mist and the subtle movement of water. Muted tones of pale blue, gray, and a hint of rust‑red blend into the background, creating an atmospheric effect that emphasizes serenity over detail.
History & Provenance
Created during the early Qing dynasty, the leaf was later acquired by the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it remains on display. Its inclusion in the museum’s collection reflects the institution’s interest in East Asian album paintings and the broader appreciation of Wang Gai’s oeuvre.
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