Crouched at the edge of the water
late 17th century
About this artwork
A Chinese ink and wash painting depicting a solitary scholar or monk seated by a stream in a mountainous landscape, rendered with characteristic expressive brushwork and an emphasis on natural forms. The artwork features calligraphy and a red seal in the upper right corner.
Did you know?
Shitao was a descendant of the Ming imperial family who became a Buddhist monk after the fall of the dynasty. This personal history often imbued his landscapes with a sense of melancholy and retreat from the world. He was known for his innovative and individualistic style, breaking away from the strict conventions of his time and famously stating, "The best method is no method."
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Crouched at the edge of the water
Shitao, late 17th century
