Artwork

Handing over the Inkstone by the Western Pond.

Handing over the Inkstone by the Western Pond., by Yu Zhiding, unspecified
Handing over the Inkstone by the Western Pond., by Yu Zhiding, unspecified

Handing over the Inkstone by the Western Pond. is an unspecified painting by the Qing dynasty painting artist Yu Zhiding. It is held in the collection of the National Museum of China.

About this work

Overview

Handing over the Inkstone by the Western Pond is a painting created by Yu Zhiding in 1710. It is a representative work of the Qing dynasty painting tradition and is currently held in the National Museum of China.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts four men in a serene outdoor setting near a pond, with one seated figure holding an inkstone. The tranquil atmosphere and traditional Chinese robes worn by the figures evoke a sense of contemplation and quiet reflection.

Technique & Style

Yu Zhiding's use of color and composition achieves a harmonious balance in the painting. Delicate and precise brushstrokes contribute to the overall sense of calm, creating a peaceful world that invites the viewer to step into the depicted scene.

History & Provenance

Yu Zhiding, born around 1647, was a painter in the Imperial Painting Academy under the Kangxi Emperor. Trained under Lan Ying, he was known for his portraits and landscapes, and his works were commissioned by prominent figures of his time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Yu Zhiding

Artist

Yu Zhiding

Yu Zhiding (Yü Chih-ting, traditional: 禹之鼎, simplified: 禹之鼎); ca. (1647–1709) was a Chinese painter during the Qing dynasty (1644–1912). Yu was a native of Jiangdu (present-day Yangzhou) in Jiangsu province. His style…