Artwork

Waiting for the Moon in the Mid Autumn Festival

Waiting for the Moon in the Mid Autumn Festival, by Shi Rui, unspecified, 1404
Waiting for the Moon in the Mid Autumn Festival, by Shi Rui, unspecified, 1404

Waiting for the Moon in the Mid Autumn Festival is an unspecified painting by the Ming dynasty painting artist Shi Rui. It dates from 1404 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Waiting for the Moon in the Mid Autumn Festival is a landscape painting created by Chinese artist Shi Rui around 1404. It is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The painting's theme revolves around the Mid Autumn Festival, a traditional Chinese celebration. The title suggests a scene of anticipation, possibly depicting individuals or a setting awaiting the moon's appearance, which is central to the festival's festivities.

Technique & Style

While specific technical details of the painting are not provided, as a 14th-century Chinese landscape, it likely employs traditional Chinese painting techniques, such as ink on silk or paper, with brushwork characteristic of the Yuan or early Ming dynasties.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1404 by Shi Rui, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here. Its current location indicates it has been recognized for its cultural and artistic significance.

Context

Produced during the early Ming dynasty (if precisely 1404, then in the reign of Yongle Emperor), the painting reflects the cultural and artistic values of its time, including the reverence for the Mid Autumn Festival and the traditional landscape themes prevalent in Chinese art.

Legacy

As part of a prominent museum collection, the painting contributes to the understanding and appreciation of 14th-century Chinese art and the cultural significance of the Mid Autumn Festival. Its legacy is intertwined with the educational and conservational efforts of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Shi Rui

Shi Rui, courtesy name also Shi Rui, was a Chinese landscape and building painter in the early Ming dynasty.

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