Huaisu in the Banana Grove

Huaisu in the Banana Grove

Gu Yun

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Gu Yün was the leader of a group of painters working in Shanghai during the last quarter of the 19th century who called themselves "The Nine Friends" in imitation of Dong Qichang's (1555–1636) literati circle. the group included Wu Dacheng, Lu Hui, Ren Yü, Jin Lan and Ni Dian, all represented in this exhibition. In Gu's portrayal of Huai Su (737–?), the Tang monk is seated in the banana grove he called "Green Sky Temple," practicing calligraphy on nature's affordable paper—the banana leaf. Flywhisk in hand and drowsy from effort and perhaps drink, he wipes moisture from his brow, giving the impression that he is preparing for a nap. This amusing and very human portrayal is typical of the 19th century populist artist's approach to venerable and traditional subjects.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.