The Great Wall

The Great Wall is one of the most famous scenic spots in China. In this painting, the Great Wall towers up into the clouds and stretches out as far as the horizon. A camel troop is busy transporting goods. A great number of factories stand in the area, demonstrate a new atmosphere in China brought about by the reform. Qian Songyan employed traditional techniques and colour to present the construction of China. Based on the content, it can be estimated that this work was completed after 1949. When the People's Republic of China was founded, Mao Zedong proposed that art should serve the people and be committed to reform, which entrusted the painting of landscapes with a new task of extolling the virtues of the motherland. Accordingly, the painting of landscapes was required to suit the needs of the socialist construction and incorporate itself into the strategy for the modernisation of China. This landscape was drawn in accordance with this task and therefore reflects the style of the time.