Artwork

Treasures of the Sea

Treasures of the Sea, by Liu Songnian, unspecified, 1209
Treasures of the Sea, by Liu Songnian, unspecified, 1209

Treasures of the Sea is an unspecified painting by Liu Songnian. It dates from 1209 and is held in the collection of the National Palace Museum.

About this work

Overview

Treasures of the Sea, a landscape painting created circa 1209 by Liu Songnian, exemplifies the artistic traditions of the early Southern Song Dynasty.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a serene coastal scene, embodying the refined naturalism and balanced composition that defined Southern Song academic art.

Technique & Style

While specific techniques used in *Treasures of the Sea* are not detailed, it likely reflects the meticulous brushwork and harmonious palette characteristic of Liu's work within the Imperial Academy of Painting.

History & Provenance

Liu Songnian, a member of the esteemed Four Masters of the Southern Song, painted this work during his post-Imperial Academy period (after 1194). It is now part of the National Palace Museum's collection.

Context

Created during the Southern Song Dynasty, *Treasures of the Sea* was influenced by the artistic standards of the Imperial Academy of Painting in Hangzhou, where Liu trained and served as a painter-in-attendance from 1190 to 1194.

Artist & collection

Artist

Liu Songnian

Liu Songnian (刘松年 or traditional Liu Sung-nien, 1174–1224 CE), was a Chinese landscape painter during the early Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279).

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