Wu Tao Tzu had the greatest influence on the painting of the Far East. What Michelangelo Buonarroti was to the West, he was to the Far East. His life coincided with the “golden age of Chinese culture”, during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong (712-756) of the Tang dynasty. He was born around 689 in a … Read more
One distant evenings – I heard in the dark wind A lute penetrating into the heart… And I took my lute in that wind; It gave its response to another lute. Since then, even the birds are heard in the dark wind: With their language, the night has sung… Li Bai An ancient Chinese myth … Read more
Simple refuge, a woodcut by Wang Meng from the 14th century during the Yuan dynasty. The inscription on it says: “This was painted by the Master of the Yellow Crane Mountain, Wang Meng, for the esteemed student of the Simple Refuge.” The most important characteristic of the Chinese garden, its irregular and organic form, emerged … Read more
Dragons are common motifs in myths, legends, and folklore of many ancient cultures. They are usually depicted as serpent-like or reptilian creatures, with elongated bodies covered in scales, large wings and eyes, and the ability to breathe fire. They represent certain qualities and strengths that humans need to express, certain trials or limitations that need … Read more
The Chinese philosopher Mengzi (Mencius, 372-288 BC) is a follower of Confucius’ teachings and a representative of the idealistic wing of Confucianism. He was born in the state of Zou (northwestern part of present-day Shandong province), which bordered the state of Lu, Confucius’ hometown. His mother played an important role in his life, raising him … Read more
