Lohan was painted by Liu Songnian in 1207.

Where can I see Lohan?

Lohan is held by National Palace Museum.

Artwork

Lohan

Lohan is an unspecified painting by Liu Songnian. It dates from 1207 and is held in the collection of the National Palace Museum.

About this work

Overview

Lohan is a landscape painting created in 1207 by Liu Songnian, a prominent artist of the early Southern Song Dynasty. Characterized by its refined academic style, the work reflects the artistic ideals patronized by the Southern Song court.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts an intimate scene of two monks in a forest setting, accompanied by animals such as monkeys and deer. The interaction between the monks—one leaning on a tree branch looking down, the other standing and looking up—conveys a sense of serene dialogue or guidance.

Technique & Style

Lohan showcases meticulous detail, evident in the intricate designs on the monks' robes and the realistic portrayal of animals. The palette is subdued, dominated by earthy tones of brown and green, underscoring the painting's naturalistic and contemplative ambiance.

History & Provenance

Liu Songnian, active from circa 1190 to 1230 and a member of the esteemed Four Masters of the Southern Song, crafted this piece during his affiliation with the Imperial Academy of Painting in Hangzhou. Today, Lohan is part of the collection at the National Palace Museum.