Description
This lacquer panel, perhaps part of a piece of furniture, depicts the Gathering at Lanting in 353 CE that took place during the Spring Purification Festival, a day spent traditionally outside in nature. Here, cups of wine are set afloat on a winding stream as part of a poetry competition among the attendants.
By the Ming dynasty the painting theme Gathering at Lanting also appeared on lacquer, jade, and porcelain. The main figure and central motif, Calligrapher Wang Xizhi Watching Geese, has been moved toward the upper register of the composition.
By the Ming dynasty the painting theme Gathering at Lanting also appeared on lacquer, jade, and porcelain. The main figure and central motif, Calligrapher Wang Xizhi Watching Geese, has been moved toward the upper register of the composition.
Provenance
Frederick M. Mayer [1899–1974], New York, NY, consigned to Christie's for sale (?–1974); (Christie's, London, England, June 24–25, 1974 sale, lot no. 123, sold to the Cleveland Museum of Art) (June 24–25, 1974); The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (1974–)
Accession Number
1974.72
Medium
Carved cinnabar-red lacquer
Dimensions
Overall: 48.5 x 21 cm (19 1/8 x 8 1/4 in.)
Classification
Lacquer
Credit Line
Andrew R. and Martha Holden Jennings Fund
