Artwork Page for Scenic View of Suzhou

Details / Information for Scenic View of Suzhou

Scenic View of Suzhou

姑蘇勝景

1736–95

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong reign

(1736–95)
Medium
Hanging scroll; polychrome woodblock print; ink and color on paper
Measurements
Print only: 112 x 55.8 cm (44 1/8 x 21 15/16 in.); Overall: 188 x 64 cm (74 x 25 3/16 in.); with knobs: 188 x 71 cm (74 x 27 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 2025.53
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

Woodblock printing in color reached a height in China in the 1600s to 1700s. The prints were executed by means of sets of separate blocks, each carved to print a different color.

Description

In the 1600s, printing flourished in such Jiangnan cities as Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Huizhou, evolving from privately enjoyed illustrated books printed in color to more commercialized single-sheet color prints that were hung on walls and became part of the rich urban visual culture.
A polychrome woodblock hanging scroll depicts a garden scene. The upper third features winding clouds and calligraphy (see "Inscriptions") above red mountains and a river with a stone bridge. In the center, red-railed bridges connect pavilions surrounded by trees. Below, people with light skin tones gather; two play stringed instruments. Fine lines and a muted palette of yellows, reds, and greens define this bustling panoramic view.

Scenic View of Suzhou

1736–95

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong reign (1736–95)

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