Knick-knack Peddler

<verified and declared by the ministry of culture in december 2008 as a national treasure>
Li Song (1170-1255), a native of Qiantang (modern Hangzhou), served as a Painter-in-Attendance in the Painting Academy at the Southern Song court under three emperors: Guangzong, Ningzong, and Lizong, who reigned from 1190 to 1264. Li Song is said to have specialized in Buddhist and Daoist subject matter, figures, and "ruled-line" painting.
This work depicts an elderly knick-knack peddler holding a pellet drum and accompanied by a shoulder pole carrying his countless wares. He has come to rest by a willow tree somewhere in a countryside setting as a woman with children arrive and swarm around him. The peddler is busy keeping an eye on the mischievous children, having a look of nervousness and hopelessness at keeping the children from his goods. The mother looks down at the items and appears to be lost in thought, the children clamoring with frenzied action and spirit. Along with its realistic details, this painting reveals the children's psychological state of excitement and desire, making it a superb example of Southern Song naturalism.