Page from the Ten Bamboo Studio Manual of Painting and Calligraphy 1633

This page from the Ten Bamboo Studio Manual of Painting and Calligraphy, created in 1633 by Hu Zhengyan, illustrates a detailed rendering of a rock formation. The artist, known for his meticulous approach to depicting nature, uses delicate brushstrokes and subtle washes of color to capture the texture and form of the rock. The manual, a comprehensive guide to Chinese painting and calligraphy, showcases the techniques and principles of this traditional art form. It provides a glimpse into the artistic practices and aesthetics of the early 17th century in China. This page, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is a testament to Hu Zhengyan's mastery of depicting the beauty and complexity of the natural world.