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How to Read Chinese Paintings

How to Read Chinese Paintings

by Maxwell K. Hearn

Imprint: Metropolitan Museum of Art

Series: The Metropolitan Museum of Art - How to Read

184 Pages, 9.25 x 12.00 in, 175 color illus., including 1 map

Paperback
9780300141870
Published: Friday, 1 Aug 2008

$25.00

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The Chinese often use the expression du hua, “to read a painting,” in connection with their study and appreciation of such works. This volume closely “reads” thirty-six masterpieces of Chinese painting from the encyclopedic collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in order to reveal the major characteristics and themes of this rich pictorial tradition. The book examines multiple layers of meaning—style, technique, symbolism, past traditions, and the artist’s personal circumstances—through accessible texts and numerous large color details. A dynastic chronology, map, and list of further readings supplement the text.

Spanning a thousand years of Chinese art, these landscapes, flowers, birds, figures, religious subjects, and calligraphies illuminate the main goal of every Chinese artist: to capture not only the outer appearance of a subject but also its inner essence.

Maxwell K. Hearn is Douglas Dillon Curator, Department of Asian Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

"This volume . . . visually analyzes thirty-six paintings and calligraphies in an effort to 'reveal' what makes them 'masterpieces.' Lavishly illustrated and eminently informative."—Art Times

"This text will be valuable to anyone wishing to know more about one of the great painting traditions, and could be used in the classroom."—Reference & Research Book News

How to Read Chinese Paintings

Series: The Metropolitan Museum of Art - How to Read

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