Landscape in the Style of Ancient Masters: after Ni Zan (1301-1374), Cao Zhibo (1272-1355) Possibly 1368 - 1644

Lan Ying's "Landscape in the Style of Ancient Masters: after Ni Zan (1301-1374), Cao Zhibo (1272-1355)" is a handscroll painting from the Ming Dynasty. This painting, currently located at The Art Institute of Chicago, showcases Lan Ying's mastery of the "literati" style of painting, a style that emphasizes simplicity and evocative brushstrokes. The painting features a serene landscape with a few trees standing tall against a backdrop of mountains and water. The use of washes and ink creates a sense of depth and tranquility, characteristic of this artistic movement. The inscription at the top of the scroll indicates that Lan Ying intended to emulate the styles of Ni Zan and Cao Zhibo, two prominent artists of the Yuan Dynasty.