An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Scenic Beauty Along Rivers and Mountains1614
Artist: Bian Wenyu
Chinese, 1576 - 1655
continuous landscape in mountains with river; buildings, small figures and flowering trees throughout; several boats on river
L.64-5/16 x W.7-15/16 in. (image)
Ink and colors on silk
Hand scroll
China
17th century
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Dayton
In the heart of a tumultuous early seventeenth century, when the world around was a frenzy of political unrest and societal upheaval, a whisper of serenity beckoned from the embrace of nature. It was during this anxious time that a humble truth began to resonate: to align oneself with the earth could lead to a life steeped in peace and tranquility.
Nestled within this notion is an inscription, a poetic reflection that paints an idyllic scene, shimmering under the sun's gentle gaze. It speaks of a place, "white cloud village," encircled by vast stretches of water stretching ten thousand miles, with a simple grass hut rising gracefully amidst the vibrant blooms. In this sanctuary, tranquility unfolds—a haven where not just the mind but the spirit can uncurl and soar beyond the trials of the mundane world.
As the evening falls, a sense of quietude blankets the landscape. The lotus flowers, like delicate lanterns, float upon the stillness of the pools, mirroring the tranquil hues of twilight. Friends, akin in their hearts, gather on the verandas, each face reflecting the warmth of companionship and understanding. In that moment, they share not just words but a spirit alive with the promise of immortality—a connection that transcends the fragility of life.
The mountains by the river, lush and verdant, roll endlessly into the horizon, seeming to float against the backdrop of an eternal sky. It is here, on one languid summer day in 1614, that Bian Wenyu, a seeker of peace amid chaos, entrusted his thoughts to the brush at the Northern Suburb Mountain Cottage. His creations were more than mere strokes on canvas; they were an invitation to behold a world where tranquility reigns, a fragile yet powerful remedy for the chaos surrounding him.
Thus, the essence of his message still lingers in the air, encouraging all who encounter it to pause, breathe deep, and remember that within nature lies a quiet promise—a life gently cradled in serenity's embrace.
About the artist
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