Artwork

Landscape with waterfalls and trees

Landscape with waterfalls and trees, by Kuncan, ivory, 1636
Landscape with waterfalls and trees, by Kuncan, ivory, 1636

Landscape with waterfalls and trees is an ivory painting by the Ming dynasty painting artist Kuncan. It dates from 1636 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.

About this work

Overview

Landscape with waterfalls and trees is a 1636 painting on ivory by Kun Can, a Chinese Buddhist monk and artist.

Subject & Meaning

The serene landscape depicts waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs and trees in the foreground, reflecting Kun Can's Chan Buddhist perspective through natural imagery.

Technique & Style

Rendered in muted colors, the painting showcases intricate details and skillful use of texture and shading, adding depth and dimensionality to the scene.

History & Provenance

Kun Can, one of the Four Monk Masters of the early Qing Dynasty, was influenced by the Ming painter Wang Meng. The painting is now part of the Ashmolean Museum's collection.

Artist & collection

Artist

Kuncan

Kun Can (髡殘, Buddhist name; common name: 劉石谿 (Liu Shixi or Liu Jieqiu)) (1612 to after 1674) was a Chinese Buddhist monk and painter during Ming and Qing dynasties.

Ashmolean Museum

Museum

Ashmolean Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Ashmolean Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.