Artwork
Monkey and Cats
Monkey and Cats is an unspecified painting by the Song dynasty painting artist Yi Yuanji. It dates from 1050 and is held in the collection of the National Palace Museum.
About this work
Overview
Monkey and Cats is a painting created by Yi Yuanji, a Northern Song dynasty artist, around 1050. It exemplifies the refined court painting tradition of the time.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a monkey on the right and two cats on the left, with a cylindrical object tied with a rope at the center bottom. The subjects are rendered in earthy tones, with the animals shown in shades of brown and gray against a warm beige background.
Technique & Style
Yi Yuanji's skill in detailed, realistic representation is evident in the painting's subtle precision and expressive brushstrokes, which convey a sense of movement and energy.
Context
As a specialist in flora and fauna, Yi Yuanji was known for his lifelike animal depictions, particularly gibbons, and was praised by critics like Guo Ruoxu for his skill.
Artist & collection
