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zemin
Returning from a Visit

Collectible Description

The Yuan dynasty (1279–1368), during which time the Mongols dominated China, was one of great distress for the Chinese. For the first time in their history, the entire country was under foreign control. With the abolishment of civil-service examinations, the traditional government career of the scholar-gentry class was eradicated. The literati retreated to their homes and supported themselves through painting. The Yuan dynasty thus represents a break in the continuity of Chinese landscape painting. A time of nostalgic return to the past, it also saw the emergence of new directions in the function of painting, which became not just representational but a means of self-expression. Zhu Derun was a distinguished man of letters and one of the finest painters of the Yuan dynasty. Zhu’s conservative style of rendering rocks and trees is drawn from the early landscape masters of the tenth century. Starting at the right, the composition begins with a thatched house in a clearing among mountains and trees; inside a man sits reading, the head of a woman visible through a right-side window. Continuing left, a path leads across a bridge to a village in the middle ground and then to distant mountains, which recede into the mist. A traveler approaching the bridge, accompanied by his servant, is returning to his home. In keeping with the innovative character of Yuan-period works, Zhu has skillfully combined two Northern Song (960–1127) modes of landscape painting. The sharp, spiky depiction of the gnarled trees follows the manner of the tenth-century masters Li Cheng and Guo Xi, while the soft, round forms of the rocks spotted with rich, black dots of vegetation are painted in the manner of two other tenth-century masters, Dong Yuan and Ju Ran. The theme of the scholar-official returning home to withdraw from the troubles of the world is common in Yuan painting, a reaction to the traumatic mood of the period.

Artist Biography

Zemin (Suiyang Shanren): A Life in Painting and Poetry

Name: Zemin, Suiyang Shanren (also known as Zhu Derun)
Origin: Henan Province, China
Born: 1294, Shangqiu, China
Died: 1365

Early Life and Career

Zemin was born in Suiyang (present-day Shangqiu), Henan Province. He later moved to Suzhou.
He held significant positions within the Yuan Dynasty government, serving as an editor at the national academy of history, academic director in Zhendong Province, and a supervisor in Jiangzhe Province.
Beyond his administrative roles, Zemin was recognized for his talents as both a painter and a poet.

Artistic Style and Influences

Painting: Zemin's landscape paintings are characterized by strong, bold brushstrokes inspired by Xu Daoning and Guo Xi. His landscapes typically feature distant mountains, sturdy peaks, and robust trees. A distinctive element is the depiction of mountain stones using cirrus-cloud brushstrokes and tree branches resembling crab claws. Notable works include "Pavilion of Elegant Plain," "Playing Lyre under the Trees," and "Boating on the Pine Creek."
Calligraphy: His calligraphy was heavily influenced by Zhao Mengfu and Wang Xizhi, demonstrating exceptional skill in this art form.
Poetry: Zemin was also a skilled poet, with many of his works reflecting landscapes and everyday life.

Key Influences and Development

Zhao Mengfu: Significantly influenced Zemin's calligraphy style, imparting precision and elegance.
Wang Xizhi: Shaped Zemin’s calligraphic approach with a focus on fluidity and expressive brushwork.
Xu Daoning & Guo Xi: Provided inspiration for his bold and dynamic landscape painting techniques, particularly in the depiction of rocks and trees.
Zemin's artistic development involved synthesizing these influences to create a unique style that blended traditional elements with personal expression. He moved away from some earlier styles, reflecting the changing political and social climate of the Yuan Dynasty.

Legacy and Historical Significance

Zemin’s work represents a significant contribution to Chinese art during the Yuan Dynasty, a period marked by upheaval and transition.
His paintings offer insights into the literati's response to political instability, often reflecting themes of retreat and nostalgia.
He is remembered for his innovative approach to landscape painting, combining different styles and techniques to create evocative and expressive compositions.
Zemin’s legacy continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts, demonstrating the enduring power of Chinese artistic traditions.

zemin

1294 - 1365 , China

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Shan Shui painting
Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- Zhao Mengfu
- Wang Xizhi
- Xu Daoning
- Guo Xi
Date Of Birth: 1294
Date Of Death: 1365
Full Name: Zemin, Suiyang Shanren
Nationality: Chinese
Notable Artworks:
- Pavilion of Elegant Plain
- Playing Lyre under the Trees
- Boating on the Pine Creek
Place Of Birth: Shangqiu, China

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Returning from a Visit

Collectible Description

Artist Biography

Giclée / Art Print

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White $1

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Extended $1

P118B $10

P118H $10

P118W $10

P438Z $10

P508JH $12

P508YH $12

P805H $10

P805Z $10

P919BZ $10

P919G $10

P919XJ $10

P959ZH $10

P968JZ $12

W106C $8

W218G $10

W218JH $8

W218Y $10

W307PJ $10

W316G $10

W316PJ $8

W316Y $10

W398PJ $8

W4111J $10

W500HY $15

W500JH $15

W692G $12

W849H $8

W940BG $15

W953PJ $8

H24-GOLD $40

H24-SILVER $40

H36-GOLD $60

H36-SILVER $60

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Summary

Giclée / Art Print

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Reproduction Frame

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Nameplate

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Protective Varnish

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Urgent

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Total Price

$ 65

Collectible Description

Artist Biography

Zemin (Suiyang Shanren): A Life in Painting and Poetry

Early Life and Career