Nymph of the Luo River, 1591
Wang Shanggongexpand_more
Ink on paperexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 2001.70.5
Not on Viewexpand_more
The classical narrative poem “Nymph of the Luo River,” written by Cao Zhi (192–232 CE), is the subject of this elegantly brushed handscroll. The story recounts an unsuccessful love affair between a poet and a river goddess. The verse, one of the standards of Chinese literature, became a favorite subject of painters. Attached to the painted portion of this scroll is a transcription of the “Nymph of the Luo River” by the late-Ming calligrapher Gu Mengyu, dated 1654.
The painting is executed in the “fine-line” technique called baimiao. Although the style demands extraordinary brush control, Wang alternated areas of dry, textured brushwork with even, wirelike lines to add a sense of spontaneity and liveliness to the composition. Only a few paintings by Wang Shanggong reside in Western collections.
Details
- Title
- Nymph of the Luo River
- Artist Life
- active 16th century
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2001.70.5
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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