Artwork
宋代帝半身像册-宋朝英宗皇帝像

宋代帝半身像册-宋朝英宗皇帝像 is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It is held in the collection of the National Palace Museum.
About this work
Overview
The silk painting presents a half‑length portrait of a male figure dressed in a white robe trimmed with red, topped by a traditional Chinese hat. Set against a light‑coloured fabric background interrupted by a darker horizontal band behind the head, the subject gazes to his right with a composed, neutral expression.
Subject & Meaning
The individual portrayed is Emperor Yingzong of the Song dynasty, identifiable by his distinctive long, thin moustache and neatly trimmed hair, hallmarks of imperial portraiture of the period. The restrained demeanor and formal attire reflect the Confucian ideals of measured authority and moral rectitude associated with Song rulership.
Technique & Style
Executed on silk, the work employs fine brushwork to delineate the delicate folds of the white robe and the subtle shading of the facial features. The contrast between the light background and the darker horizontal stripe creates a simple yet effective spatial separation, focusing attention on the emperor’s visage without elaborate scenery.
History & Provenance
The portrait is part of the collection of the National Palace Museum, Taiwan, where it is catalogued among Song dynasty imperial portraits. Its preservation on silk has allowed the piece to survive in relatively good condition, offering insight into courtly visual culture during Emperor Yingzong’s reign.
Artist & collection



















