Artwork
White-Robed Guanyin
White-Robed Guanyin is an unspecified painting by the Ming dynasty painting artist Zhang Yuehu. It dates from 1294 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
History & Provenance
Produced in China, this religious work dates specifically to the late Southern Song or early Yuan dynasty period based on its inception year.
The painting White-Robed Guanyin was created in 1287 by the Chinese artist Zhang Yuehu, who was active during the 13th century. Produced in China, this religious work dates specifically to the late Southern Song or early Yuan dynasty period based on its inception year. The artwork eventually entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is held under the accession number 1972.160.
While the specific circumstances of its original commission and the intermediate owners between its creation and the 20th century are not detailed in the available records, its acquisition by the Cleveland institution occurred in 1972.
The painting White-Robed Guanyin, created by Zhang Yuehu in 1287, is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art in Cleveland. The work is cataloged under the accession number 1972.160. It is classified as a religious painting originating from China during the 13th century.
Overview
This painting, titled White-Robed Guanyin, was created by the artist Zhang Yuehu in 1294. It depicts Guanyin, a significant figure in East Asian Buddhism, in a serene natural setting. The artwork is characterized by its contemplative mood and refined execution, offering a visual representation of spiritual tranquility. It is currently housed in The Cleveland Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure is Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, shown seated on a rock beside a flowing stream. She wears a simple white robe, symbolizing purity, and holds a small vase, often associated with the elixir of life or divine nectar. The surrounding elements, such as the bamboo and the luminous moon, enhance the spiritual atmosphere, suggesting a connection to nature and enlightenment.
Technique & Style
Zhang Yuehu employed a delicate approach, utilizing soft, muted colors and gentle brushstrokes to evoke a sense of calm and introspection. The artist skillfully rendered the figure and landscape through subtle gradations of light and shadow, contributing to the painting's quiet, almost dreamlike quality. This technique emphasizes the spiritual and ethereal nature of the subject.
Artist & collection
