Studying a painting 1500 - 1563

"Studying a Painting," created between 1500 and 1563 by Zhang Lu, showcases the artist's mastery of ink and brushwork in the Ming Dynasty. The hanging scroll, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts a group of figures gathered around a table in a garden setting. Lush greenery, detailed rocks, and a prominent tree trunk frame the scene, highlighting the beauty of nature and the importance of scholarly pursuits. The painting demonstrates the "xieyi" style, a form of expressionistic brushwork common in Chinese painting. This scroll serves as a testament to the artistic legacy of Zhang Lu, one of the most prominent painters of the Ming dynasty.