China, Ming dynasty (1368–1644) / 1400s
The Hermit Xu You Resting by a Stream
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs The Hermit Xu You Resting by a Stream as painting (China, Ming dynasty (1368–1644) · 1400s).
When the emperor offered him a post overseeing the Nine Territories (as China was known in ancient times), Xu You went to the River Ying to cleanse his ears from such an unwelcome proposition.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this painting as Hanging scroll; ink and slight color on silk and credits Dai Jin (Chinese, 1388–1462).
The museum's collection notes: Xu You, a recluse who refused the throne offered to him by legendary Emperor Yao, chose instead to farm on Mount Ji. Sitting under cliffs, his left arm resting on his risen leg and his loose robe revealing his belly, he displays a nonchalant attitude. Xu You is wearing a laborer’s outfit, a short robe and tight leggings, while his composed pose and gentle features reveal his lofty character. The composition shows rising mountains on the left juxtaposed by open space on the far right. Powerful brushstrokes and nuanced ink washes follow the style of the Southern Song (1127–1279) academy painters.
FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE
The Cleveland Museum of ArtThe Hermit Xu You Resting by a StreamOriginal explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.