Art of Imperial China: Late Qing Dynasty Art 1774 to 1911

Overview of Late Qing Dynasty Art
Art in the Qing dynasty was steadily growing with the patronage of the emperors and the rise of amateur painters and craftsmen. Paintings became more popular and Qing Dynasty paintings were known for their lush decorations yet adherence to traditions. During this time the Shanghai School had the most influence over the art scene with many of the most influential artist of the time being members.

Wisteria
Wu Changshuo

Art Forms of the Late Qing Dynasty
There are many art forms that were popular during the Late Qing Dynasty. Three of the most popular art forms being:

Guohua: This term when translated directly means "national painting". Its official definition is traditional Chinese painting. During this time period it meant that an artist used traditional materials to paint traditional subjects

Evening Glow on the Autumn Mountain
Ruan Yuan
19th Century

Dreaming in the Xiaoxin Pavilion
Pan Xuefeng
1794

Calligraphy: Although calligraphy may be thought of just fancy writing Chinese calligraphy is a national art form. It can be thought of as the "art of writing" and was immensely popular before painting became widespread.

"Calligraphy was revered as a fine art long before painting; indeed, it was not until the Song Dynasty, when painting became closely allied with calligraphy in aim, form, and technique, that painting shed its status as mere craft and joined the higher ranks of the fine arts"

Branch of Blossoming Plum
Wu Changshou
1892

Pottery: One of the most widely known forms of Chinese art due to the popularity of Chinese porcelain art today. The making of pottery goes back to the neolithic period in China. Adding on to this China is the birthplace of porcelain. During the Qing Dynasty bright colors were introduced more prominently in pottery.

Bowl Painted with Orchids
(1644-1911)

Blue and White Shallow Plate
Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)

Famous Artists of Late Qing Dynasty
Ren Bonian: A painted who focused on traditional paintings. He was a member of the Shnaghai School which was a famous school of art in the Late Qing Dynasty. He is known for his use of color in his paintings and influenced Wu Changshuo.

Playing the Flute
Ren Bonian
1867-1870

Flowers and Antiques
Ren Bonian
1840-1896

Wu Changshou: Born to a family of scholars he later pioneered his own style often called "Wu style". It was characterized by strong brushstrokes and often poetic inscriptions. He did not start painting until the age of 30 after being urged by his colleagues. His first love was calligraphy and he slowly transitioned to painting.

Branch of Blossoming Plum, detail
Wu Chnagshou
1892

Zhao Zhiqian: Born to a merchant family Zhiqian sought higher education to work for the government. He was the leading artist of his day and in Beijing while trying to sell his art. He is known for his paintings and calligraphy and strong distinctive brush strokes

Flowers
Zhao Zhiqian
1859

Couplet
Zhao Zhiqian
1867

"Because one has forbearance, ones virtue is great; Because one does not deceive, ones thought are naturally sincere" (Translated by Jason C, Kuo).

Ren Xiong: A member of the Shanghai School and was an innovator of the traditional ways. He dominated the art scene at the time along with his his brother Ren Xun, son Ren Yu, and student Ren Yi. They were known as the "Four Rens" together. He is known for his profound strokes and depictions of heroes.