Ming dynasty AD1368-1644

Shi Rui

The Yellow Emperor Inquiring After the Tao

Ming dynasty AD1368-1644

Shi Rui

The Yellow Emperor Inquiring After the Tao

Roll, ink and colors on paper
32 cm (vertical) × 152 cm (horizontal)

This artwork exemplifies the continuation and inheritance of the Southern Song dynasty’s figure painting style by the Ming dynasty court painting academy. Although the painting lacks an author’s signature, the inscription on the colophon by Liu Xiang (fl. 15th century) in 1471 states that this painting was created by Shi Rui, a famous artist living in the capital city. It is presumed that “Shi Rui” refers to the Ming dynasty court painter Shi Rui (fl. 15th century). The painting’s title scroll features the inscription “Bichuang Qingwan” in large clerical script by Xia Heng, the minister of Court of the Imperial Stud. Liu noted that the theme of the painting is “Xuanyuan Wendao,” narrating the story of the Yellow Emperor (Xuanyuan) seeking advice on Taoist self-cultivation from the immortal Guang Chengzi, who resided on the Kongtong Mountains.

 
This artwork exemplifies the continuation and inheritance of the Southern Song dynasty’s figure painting style by the Ming dynasty court painting academy. Although the painting lacks an author’s signature, the inscription on the colophon by Liu Xiang (fl. 15th century) in 1471 states that this painting was created by Shi Rui, a famous artist living in the capital city. It is presumed that “Shi Rui” refers to the Ming dynasty court painter Shi Rui (fl. 15th century). The painting’s title scroll features the inscription “Bichuang Qingwan” in large clerical script by Xia Heng, the minister of Court of the Imperial Stud. Liu noted that the theme of the painting is “Xuanyuan Wendao,” narrating the story of the Yellow Emperor (Xuanyuan) seeking advice on Taoist self-cultivation from the immortal Guang Chengzi, who resided on the Kongtong Mountains.
 
The inscription further records that this painting was later acquired by Master Chun Baiyang of the Yanyou Temple and used as a foundation for teaching disciples and establishing Taoist principles. Therefore, this artwork not only illustrates a story of transmitting Taoist teachings but also served a practical purpose within the temple
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