Artwork

Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu)

Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu), by Xiang Shengmo, unspecified, 1626
Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu), by Xiang Shengmo, unspecified, 1626

Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu) is an unspecified painting by the Chinese Orthodox School artist Xiang Shengmo. It dates from 1626 and is held in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Beckoning of Solitude, known in Chinese as Zhaoyin tu, is a painted work executed in 1626 by the Chinese artist Xiang Shengmo. The piece belongs to the early‑17th‑century tradition of literati painting and is currently part of the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

History & Provenance

Created during the late Ming dynasty, the painting entered the Western museum sphere through acquisition by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, where it is displayed as part of the institution’s Asian art holdings. Its documented trail begins with Xiang Shengmo’s workshop and continues through private collections before reaching LACMA.

Technique & Style

The work exemplifies the brushwork and compositional principles favored by scholar‑artists of Xiang Shengmo’s era, employing ink on paper to convey a restrained, contemplative atmosphere. The handling of line and tonal variation reflects the artist’s adherence to the literati aesthetic, emphasizing personal expression over decorative detail.

羅漢図|An Arhat Reading a Sutra by Moonlight
羅漢図|An Arhat Reading a Sutra by Moonlight, Jifei Ruyi (Japanese: Sokuhi Noitsu) 即非如一

Artist & collection

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu)?

Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu) was painted by Xiang Shengmo in 1626.

Where can I see Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu)?

Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu) is held by Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

What movement is Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu)?

Beckoning of Solitude (Zhaoyin tu) is associated with Chinese Orthodox School.