Ghosts Possibly 1644 - 1911

Yao Luan created this ink-on-paper album leaf called “Ghosts,” but its exact date remains unknown. In China, ghost stories have long served as a means to explore social anxieties and moral lessons, often reflecting the unease and injustices of daily life. This album leaf and its title suggest a narrative or a collection of stories, perhaps intended to be shared within a specific social circle. The cultural context of the time, with its rich tradition of folklore and spirit beliefs, would have heavily influenced the interpretation of such images. The use of ink on paper also connects it to the scholarly tradition. Historical research into Chinese folklore and literary traditions, particularly those circulating among the literati class, may shed light on the artwork's purpose. It may reveal whether it critiqued social norms or reinforced existing values. Understanding the cultural and institutional context allows us to appreciate the art as part of China’s cultural heritage.