Pillars of the Country Possibly 1368 - 1644

"Pillars of the Country" is a Chinese ink painting on paper by Yao Shou, a prominent painter during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The painting depicts a single tree with gnarled branches and foliage rendered in delicate strokes of black ink. It is a testament to Shou's mastery of the literati style, which emphasized the artist's personal expression and connection with nature. The painting is now part of the esteemed collection at The Art Institute of Chicago.