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Old Stump and Broad-leaved Plant

Series TitleThe Ten Bamboo Studio Manual of Calligraphy and Painting
Primary editor Hu Zhengyan (Chinese, ca. 1577 - 1672)
Dateca. 1633
MediumWoodblock print; ink and colors on paper (removed from bound volume)
DimensionsOverall: 10 1/4 × 12 inches (26.04 × 30.48 cm)
Credit LineGift of Laurence Sickman
Object number74-34/1 L
On View
Not on view
Collections
Gallery Label

Note the woodgrain impressions in various directions that are revealed on the rock surfaces in each print. This result is achieved from printing with multiple blocks. The wood textures, along with dark and light gray contrasts, contribute to the sculptural quality of the rock. As in painting, a seal is pressed on the image after the printing, leaving an oily residue of cinnabar ink smudged into the surrounding area. The seals identify these prints as part of the literati culture.

In Chinese gardens, rocks function as sculptures, much the same as those in Western gardens. For literati connoisseurs, rocks not only represented miniature mountains but also symbolized the earth's energy. Collectors especially appreciated rocks with sharp, rugged contours and curious holes that resulted from erosion. Many samples are illustrated here.

Information about a particular artwork or image, including provenance information, is based upon historic information and may not be currently accurate or complete. Research on artwork and images is an ongoing process, and the information about a particular artwork or image may not reflect the most current information available to the Museum. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about a particular artwork or image, please e-mail provenance@nelson-atkins.org.


Skeletal Rock Dandelion at Right
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/1 J
recto overall
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/7 B
recto overall
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/7 C
Bird Looking Right on Plum Branch
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/1 K
Preening Bird, Rock and Bamboo
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/15 A
recto overall
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/5 A
Branch of Three Tangerines
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/14 F
Long-tailed Bird
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/25
Branch of Three Pomegranates
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/14 C
recto overall
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/9 B
Three Buddha's Fingers
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/14 A
recto overall
Hu Zhengyan
ca. 1633
74-34/10 A