Historical Development
Chinese painting has a rich history spanning thousands of years, evolving from simple decorative elements to sophisticated artistic expressions that capture the essence of nature and human experience.
Ancient Origins
The evolution of Chinese painting from prehistoric times to modern styles.
- Neolithic Cave Art
- Han Dynasty Murals
- Tang Dynasty Golden Age
- Song Dynasty Refinement
- Yuan Dynasty Innovation
Great Masters
Influential artists who shaped Chinese painting.
- Gu Kaizhi (顾恺之)
- Wu Daozi (吴道子)
- Fan Kuan (范宽)
- Qi Baishi (齐白石)
- Xu Beihong (徐悲鸿)
"外师造化，中得心源" (Learn from nature, find inspiration within)
Core Elements
Four Treasures
The essential tools of Chinese painting.
- Brush (笔)
- Ink (墨)
- Paper (纸)
- Inkstone (砚)
Basic Techniques
Fundamental painting methods.
- Line Drawing (勾)
- Wash (染)
- Dotting (点)
- Rubbing (擦)
- Blending (晕)
Major Categories
Landscape Painting
Mountains and waters (山水画).
- Northern School
- Southern School
- Blue-Green Style
- Ink and Wash
- Modern Innovations
Figure Painting
Human subjects (人物画).
- Portrait Painting
- Historical Scenes
- Religious Art
- Genre Scenes
- Modern Figures
Bird and Flower
Nature subjects (花鸟画).
- Bamboo Painting
- Plum Blossoms
- Birds and Insects
- Flowers and Plants
- Animal Painting
Cultural Significance
Philosophical Aspects
The spiritual and philosophical dimensions of Chinese painting.
- Daoist Influence
- Confucian Values
- Buddhist Elements
- Nature Harmony
- Spiritual Expression
Modern Development
Contemporary trends and innovations.
- New Techniques
- Global Influence
- Digital Art
- Contemporary Themes
- Cultural Exchange