Artwork
周武王立像
周武王立像 is an unspecified painting by Ma Lin. It dates from 1228 and is held in the collection of the National Palace Museum.
About this work
Overview
Created circa 1228 by Ma Lin, a Song‑dynasty court painter and son of the renowned Ma Yuan, this hanging scroll presents a portrait of King Wu of Zhou. Executed under imperial patronage, the work exemplifies the scholarly painting tradition of the early to mid‑13th century and now belongs to the National Palace Museum’s collection.
Subject & Meaning
The figure is shown seated on the ground, turned toward the right, dressed in formal Han attire with a hat and a long robe. His calm, composed expression and relaxed posture suggest a contemplative ruler, emphasizing the dignified yet approachable character traditionally ascribed to the founder of the Zhou dynasty.
Technique & Style
Ma Lin employs a restrained palette and a uniform background, directing focus to the subject. Bold, confident brushstrokes render the folds of the robe and the texture of the hat, while subtle variations in ink density create a modest sense of volume. The overall composition balances simplicity with a refined elegance characteristic of the Ma family’s brushwork.
History & Provenance
The painting remained within imperial collections before entering the National Palace Museum, where it is displayed as part of the museum’s Song‑dynasty holdings. Its attribution to Ma Lin rests on stylistic analysis and historical records linking the work to the court atelier that served the Song emperors during the early 13th century.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Ma Lin (simplified Chinese: 马麟; traditional Chinese: 馬麟; pinyin: Mǎ Lín; Wade–Giles: Ma Lin) (c.
