Landscapes of the Twelve Months 1675 - 1695

This ink-on-paper handscroll titled "Landscapes of the Twelve Months" was created by Gong Xian between 1675 and 1695, a period of intense artistic innovation in China. This work showcases Gong Xian's signature style, characterized by loose brushstrokes and delicate shading, giving a sense of depth to the landscape. The artist, born in 1619 and died in 1689, was known for his mastery of ink wash painting, particularly in capturing the subtle nuances of nature, as seen in the depiction of mountains, trees, and a small boat. This evocative work is now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, and provides a glimpse into the artistic landscape of 17th-century China.