Pavilion for Prolonging Spring by Jian Guzhai

Pavilion for Prolonging Spring 1871 - 1933

ink

rippled sketch texture

tactile

textured surface

detailed texture

asian-art

crosshatching

ink

repetition of black colour

embossed

carved

china

scratchy texture

intricate and detailed

"Pavilion for Prolonging Spring" is a black and white inkstone, or "yan," by the Chinese artist Jian Guzhai. The inkstone is crafted from a single slab of rock, and depicts a stylized landscape scene featuring mountains, clouds, and a small pavilion. This inkstone, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the artistic and practical traditions of Chinese ink and brush painting. The intricately carved details on the inkstone's surface are meant to be appreciated for their beauty and for their functional purpose – grinding ink for calligraphy and painting.