The Nine Ancients (detail), By Ren Yi, Qing dynasty, dated 1883 (Gift of Dr. Hayashi Munetake)
Asian Gallery (Toyokan) Room 8
February 28, 2017 (Tue) - April 9, 2017 (Sun)
The history of modern Chinese painting began in the mid-19th century in Shanghai. After the Opium War (1840–42), the port of Shanghai opened, leading to a drastic internationalization of the city. Painters collectively known as the Shanghai school emerged in this new economic center. Liberal brushstrokes and fresh shades of light colors characterized their art, matching the tastes of the new wealthy class that was coming into prominence. The Xinhai Revolution, which began in 1911, saw the disruption of the Qing dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China. The belief that the fine arts should serve alongside the nation-state led to the organization of modern institutions. Art schools and organizations were established for training and the study of painting in major cities including Shanghai and Beijing. Furthermore, artists studied abroad, and tackled various challenges, such as blending traditional styles with foreign styles such as Western and Japanese to create novel styles of Chinese painting. This exhibition features the century-long history of modern Chinese painting, from the late 19th to the early 20th century.
Current exhibit includes:
The Nine Ancients, By Ren Yi, Qing dynasty, dated 1883 (Gift of Dr. Hayashi Munetake)
Lotus Flower, By Zhang Yuan, Republic period, dated 1945 (Gift of Dr. Hayashi Munetake)
Scholar and Donkey, By Xu Beihong, Republic period, dated 1936 (Gift of Dr. Hayashi Munetake)
Kite-flying, By Weng Tonghe, Qing dynasty, dated 1891 (Gift of Dr. Hayashi Munetake)
Autumn Plants and Insects, By Ren Xun, Qing dynasty, dated 1876 (Gift of Dr. Hayashi Munetake)