Shen Zongjing Active Circa 1658-1725

depicting a scholar being ferried in a skiff, with ancient pines in the foreground on the shores of an open water bounded by craggy cliffs from which spills a waterfall, hints of mountains swim in the distance, with an inscription which may be translated:



From its source the water passes stately homes along the water, flowing on forever, I float on this small skiff, not knowing where I go.  Is there not an alternative existence to this world of flux and change?  This is not something that a man obsessed with worldly care would know.  I have lived in leisure for more than ten years.  Now I find that I must pack to take up an assignment..I have done this painting for the elder Yuanshan nian'dao and, through casual conversation, he understands my intent: that I am forced by circumstances to do this.  I let out a sigh. (signed) Shifeng Shen Zongjing, bearing four seals: yanlan gaokuang, woxu shanren, ke, ting

Chinese Paintings from the Henricksen Collection, Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, Cornell University; Tyler Art Gallery, State University of New York, Oswego, 5th September 2002 - 23rd February 2003, cat. no. 12, illustrated.

1 1/2 inch vertical line of a lighter tone along left edge of satin, surface abrasons throughout, ground probably toned, touched-up creases, a few scattered spots and small repairs, 3 by 1/4 inch vertical repair to lower center, modern mount
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One can imagine, viewing this work and reading the accompanying inscription, the sense of loss but also the anticipation which the scholar in the skiff must be feeling, preparing to take up a post, after years of 'floating' through life. The open space enveloping the skiff, bounded by rocks and pines, framing the tiny figures, allows the imagination to expand, to meditate on what is to come, but also serves as a contrast to the mountains and ancient pines which allude to advanced age and timelessness.