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Mi Fu (1051-1107)
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Mi Fu (1051-1107)
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Mi Fu (1051-1107)
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Mi Fu (1051-1107)
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Mi Fu (1051-1107)
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Mi Fu (1051-1107)
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Mi Fu (1051-1107)
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Mi Fu (1051-1107)
CHINA, Shanxi, Taiyuan; Northern Song dynasty (960–1127)
Mi Fu, also known as Yuanzhang or Haiyue Waishi, was a renowned calligrapher, painter, art theorist, and seal engraver. He was known to have converted to Buddhism in his later years and studied the teachings of the Chan school, remaining devoted until his passing.
As an outstanding calligrapher, Mi was particularly skilled in cursive script. His early works were influenced by Yan Zhenqing, Liu Gongquan, and Ouyang Xun. He later focused, however, on copying the famous writings of the Wei (386-556) and Jin (265-420) dynasties, particularly that of Wang Xizhi and Wang Xianzhi. The influence gained from his study of these ancient works was expressed through his own innovative style, which elicits a feeling of energy and fluidity. In addition, Mi used his skills in seal engraving to create signatures for his own works. Alongside Cai Xiang, Huang Tingjian, and Su Shi, Mi is regarded as one of the Four Calligraphy Masters of the Song dynasty.
Driftwood, bamboo, and stones were among Mi's preferred subjects to depict in his landscape paintings. Inspired by Dong Yuan's style, he used a flat brush to create large ink patches that characteristically portrayed misty scenery. Mi believed that landscape painting was among the superior forms of art, next to Buddhist painting. He is known for having once said, Buddhist paintings provide moral guidance |
