Wang Xizhi Watching Geese

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Wang Xizhi Watching Geese

19th century

Attributed to Wang Hui (Chinese, 1632–1717/20)

According to legend, Wang Xizhi, China's most famous calligrapher, was so fond of geese that he would travel for miles to inspect a particularly notable specimen. Chinese critics have suggested that he drew inspiration for his calligraphy by observing the graceful necks of geese. Here, Wang is shown within a landscape setting, enjoying the scenery from a pavilion as a woman walks in his direction with a goose under her arm. Wang Hui (1632-1717/20), whose work this painting is mode after, came from a long line of professional painters and was one of a group of Qing dynasty painters of the Orthodox School known as "The Four Wangs."

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Object Details

Title:

Wang Xizhi Watching Geese

Date:

19th century

Artist:

Attributed to Wang Hui (Chinese, 1632–1717/20)

Medium:

Ink and color on silk; mounted as a hanging scroll

Dimensions:

51 3/8 × 15 1/2 inches (130.5 × 39.4 cm)

Classification:

Paintings

Credit Line:

Purchased with funds contributed by Edward B. Robinette from the Simkhovitch Collection, 1929

Accession Number:

1929-40-108

Geography:

Made in China, Asia

Context:

Dynasty: Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)

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