Qian Xuan

Place: Huzhou

Born: 1235

Death: 1305

Biography:

Qian Xuan, also known as Qian Xuan, was a prominent Chinese painter from Huzhou, present day Wuxing District in Zhejiang. Born in 1235 and deceased in 1305, Qian Xuan lived during the late Song dynasty and early Yuan dynasty. His life after 1276 was devoted to painting, and he became noted as a 'fur and feathers' painter.

Early Life and Career

Qian Xuan started his career as an aspiring scholar-official during the rule of the Southern Song (960–1279). However, he had difficulty climbing the ranks of officialdom. When the Mongol-founded Yuan Dynasty took over the southern regions of China in 1276, Qian Xuan effectively gave up on the idea of a career in civil administration.

Artistic Style and Notable Works

Qian Xuan was also adept at bird-and-flower painting, character painting, and landscape painting (shan shui). He is known for landscapes that hinted at a longing for a return of native Chinese rule, such as in the work Home Again. Qian Xuan mixed Song realism with an archaic Tang style. His notable works include Landscape in the style of Ni Zan, which is a stunning example of Chinese art from the late 17th century.

Legacy and Influence

Qian Xuan's legacy can be seen in his contributions to the development of Chinese painting. His unique style, which blended realism with archaic elements, has influenced many artists. At Wikioo.org, you can find reproductions of Qian Xuan's works, including Qian Xuan's paintings, such as Fur and Feathers. The National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia, also houses some of his notable works.

• Qian Xuan's pseudonyms include Yu Tan, Xi Lanweng, and Zha Chuanweng.
• His courtesy name is Shun Ju.
• Qian Xuan's life after 1276 was devoted to painting.
• He became noted as a 'fur and feathers' painter.
• Qian Xuan mixed Song realism with an archaic Tang style.

works by Qian Xuan can be found at Wikioo.org, including his notable landscapes. The Alte Nationalgalerie in Germany also houses some of his oil on canvas paintings, such as Fishermen at the Gulf of Naples. Qian Xuan's legacy continues to influence Chinese painting, and his unique style remains a subject of interest for art lovers.