Drunk in Autumn Woods

Shitao (Zhu Ruoji)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Exploring the theme of intoxication, Shitao makes us reel with the unsteadiness of his figures and landscape. He probably created this picture to commemorate an autumn outing in the hills with friends. The three inscriptions testify to the pleasure and pride that Shitao took in his achievement; they make it clear that the exhilaration experienced by the friends was inspired by nature, poetry, conviviality, and creativity as well as wine. In an instant, mists and clouds can return to their primeval form; Red trees fill the skies, spreading fire through the heavens. I invite you, sir, to get very drunk on my black brushstrokes; Lie down and watch the frosted forest as falling leaves swirl.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

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.

Metropolitan Museum of Art