Ink and color on silkexpand_more
The William Hood Dunwoody Fundexpand_more 2016.7
Datable to at least as early as the 14th century, this painting is among many Chinese artworks featuring winter scenery. The theme was often a metaphor for fortitude, strength, and the merits of solitude. Painters used a technique known as daoyuan, in which the snow-laden landscape forms were indicated by the bare white silk, while the surrounding background was painted with ink wash. Using this technique, artists were able to create wintery scenes of great tranquility and quietude.
In recent years, Mia’s collection of Chinese painting has grown rapidly. However, it lacks early masterpieces from the Song and Yuan period, making this scroll a significant addition to the collection.