Return to Stone Lake Possibly 1368 - 1644

"Return to Stone Lake," a handscroll by the celebrated Ming dynasty painter Shen Zhou, depicts a serene landscape scene. Executed in ink on paper, the work showcases the artist's mastery of the literati style, characterized by its emphasis on elegant brushwork, subtle washes, and poetic evocations of nature. The scroll unfolds to reveal a vista of mountains, trees, a winding river, and a cluster of modest dwellings, all rendered with a delicate touch that evokes a sense of tranquility and contemplation. This work, now housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, stands as a testament to Shen Zhou's enduring influence on Chinese art.