EG 111 · Figures

Gathering Beneath the Apsaras

Chinese Figure Painting in the Dunhuang Manner

Figures seated on a rug beneath pines, with flying apsaras in the clouds above. A Dunhuang-style painting in pink, jade green and white, framed in black.

The manner comes from the cave paintings of the Silk Road: flat color, fine outlines, and celestial figures trailing scarves through the sky. Below, a small party sits at ease with tea and attendants. It is a picture full of incident, and it rewards a spot where people sit close to it.

The pink silk mat is unusual and lovely; it makes the greens sing. Hang it in a living room, a bedroom, or anywhere with a sofa opposite.

Black lacquered frame with brass hangers at the top rail. Glazed.