Couplet from a Poem by Han Hong 1261

This artwork is a calligraphy piece featuring a couplet from a poem by Han Hong, executed by Emperor Lizong in 1261. The piece showcases the Emperor's skill in the art of calligraphy, a cherished pursuit for intellectuals in the Song Dynasty. The calligraphy, written in black ink on silk, is characterized by elegant strokes and a balance between formality and expressiveness. The work, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, reflects the cultural values of the time and the artistic talent of the emperor, a testament to the refined taste of the Song Dynasty.