GU KAIZHI

Notable Works

While most of Gu Kaizhi’s original paintings have not survived, several works attributed to him have been copied and preserved over the centuries. Among the most famous are:

(1) “Admonitions of the Instructress to the Court Ladies” : This handscroll painting, based on a poem by Zhang Hua, depicts scenes from the life of women in the imperial court. The work emphasizes the importance of moral conduct and proper behaviour, reflecting Confucian values. The painting is renowned for its elegant lines and the subtle expression of the figures’ emotions, showcasing Gu Kaizhi’s mastery in conveying both the physical and psychological aspects of his subjects.

(2) “Nymph of the Luo River” : Inspired by the poetic work “Rhapsody on the Goddess of the Luo River” by Cao Zhi, this painting depicts the romantic and mythical encounter between the poet and the river goddess. The work is celebrated for its lyrical quality, fluid brushwork, and the ethereal beauty of the figures, capturing the spiritual essence of the story.

(3) “Wise and Benevolent Women” : This painting illustrates a series of virtuous women from Chinese history, each embodying qualities like wisdom, kindness, and righteousness. The work serves as both a moral guide and a tribute to these exemplary women, with Gu Kaizhi’s detailed and expressive style bringing their stories to life.



Artistic Philosophy

Gu Kaizhi’s approach to painting was deeply rooted in the belief that art should convey the inner spirit and essence of its subjects, rather than merely replicate their outward appearance. This concept, known as “qiyun shengdong” (气韵生动), or “spiritual resonance and life movement,” became a fundamental principle in Chinese art. He emphasized the importance of capturing the “spirit” of a person or scene, rather than focusing solely on realistic representation.

Gu Kaizhi also wrote extensively on art theory, with his ideas recorded in several texts, including the “Essay on Painting”, where he discussed techniques, composition, and the role of the artist in society. His writings reveal a sophisticated understanding of the relationship between form, content, and meaning in art, and they continue to be studied by artists and scholars alike.



Calligraphy And Poetry

In addition to his contributions to painting, Gu Kaizhi was also an accomplished calligrapher and poet. His calligraphy, like his painting, was characterised by a fluid and expressive style, with a focus on capturing the essence of the characters. His poetry, though less well-known than his visual art, reflects his deep engagement with Chinese literary traditions and provides further insight into his philosophical and aesthetic beliefs.



Legacy And Influence

Gu Kaizhi’s influence on Chinese art cannot be overstated. His innovations in figure painting set the standard for future generations of artists, and his theoretical writings laid the groundwork for the development of Chinese art theory. His works and ideas were revered by later painters and critics, and he is often cited as a key figure in the establishment of the Chinese painting tradition.

Even though many of Gu Kaizhi’s original works have been lost over time, the copies and adaptations of his paintings that survive continue to be treasured as masterpieces of Chinese art. His legacy lives on in the continued study and appreciation of his contributions to the cultural heritage of China.

Gu Kaizhi’s life and work exemplify the integration of artistic skill, intellectual depth, and moral philosophy that characterizes the highest achievements of Chinese culture. Through his paintings, writings, and influence, he remains a towering figure in the history of Chinese art, whose impact is still felt today.