Zhang Guolao and His Magic Mule 1368 - 1911

This painting by Yin Qi, titled *Zhang Guolao and His Magic Mule*, depicts a Daoist immortal, Zhang Guolao, riding a donkey with its head turned back toward him. Zhang Guolao was a popular figure in Chinese folklore known for his magic mule, which could travel great distances in a single step. The painting is a fine example of the *xieyi* style of brush painting, characterized by a loose and expressive brushwork. The work was created during the Ming Dynasty in China (1368-1911), a time when the arts flourished under the patronage of the emperors. This painting, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcases the skillful use of ink and brush by Yin Qi and reflects the enduring popularity of Daoist mythology in Chinese art.