Tours of the Four Seasons with the Emperor of the Ming Dynasty
Step inside the long scroll "Joy of the Four Seasons", a work presented in "Through Pines the Bright Moon Glows", an exhibition of ancient Chinese paintings featuring pine trees, held by Song Art Museum from April 29, 2018 to July 29, 2018.
Joy of the Four Seasons (Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD)) by UnknownSong Art Museum
This is a 7.8-meter-long scroll painted in the Ming Dynasty, depicting the emperor's tours of the four seasons with other imperial members.
Just imagine when you unroll the scroll and expect what is coming next.
In this painting, the emperor, who always dressed in a fancy robe, appears up to five times, although it still remains controversial for scholars that who the emperor is.
In the first part, he sits in a cottage under pines and watches girls play on the swing. Some servants stand by his sides. And he has a gentle smile on his face.
Flowers bloom when spring comes. The entire yard is pervaded with an atmosphere of joy and liveliness. As a tradition, the emperor appreciates peonies in a pavilion.
His servants pick the most beautiful flowers and bring to him. It is quite amazing that every detail is carefully painted.
Joy of the four seasonsSong Art Museum
Joy of the Four Seasons (Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD)) by UnknownSong Art Museum
While in late summer, the emperor rests beside a lotus pond, enjoying the blooming lotus.
Joy of the four seasonsSong Art Museum
Joy of the Four Seasons (Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD)) by UnknownSong Art Museum
In the midst of autumn, appreciating chrysanthemum is an important seasonal activity.
Joy of the four seasonsSong Art Museum
Joy of the Four Seasons (Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD)) by UnknownSong Art Museum
As some of the plants begin to fade, we know that winter comes. The emperor puts on a heavy coat and a mink hat, stays indoors and appreciates the colorful plum blossom.
Joy of the four seasonsSong Art Museum
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