Chen Hongshou (Chinese, 1598 - 1652), Hermit in landscape, 1622-1644, Ming dynasty (1368-1644)-Qing dynasty (1644-1911). Hanging scroll. Ink and colors on silk. H. 93 5/8 in × W. 26 in, H. 237.8 cm × W. 66 cm (overall); H. 49 3/8 in × W. 19 1/2 in, H. 125.4 cm × W. 49.5 cm (image); W. 29 5/8 in, W. 75.2 cm (knob to knob); H. 27 7/8 in, H. 70.8 cm (upper border height). Museum purchase, B79D8 © 2016 Asian Art Museum Chong-Moon Lee Center for Asian Art and Culture.

A man wearing a loose robe and straw sandals stands in a landscape consisting of a few clusters of rocks, trees with red and green leaves, and floating clouds. In his right hand he holds a long stick that supports four strings of dried fruit; in his left hand is a greenish teapot with an overhead handle. He appears an eccentric individual, little concerned with social conventions. The artist lived in a time of economic, social, and finally military upheaval. Perhaps as a result, his figure paintings frequently depict such characters.

Signature "Hongshou."

Chen Hongshou (1598–1652) was born in Zhuji, Zhejiang province. A gifted painter of landscapes, figures, and flower-and-bird painting, as well as a calligrapher, Chen was selected to paint emperors' portraits for the Ming court during the reign of Chongzhen (1628–1644). He associated with members of the educated elite driven to poverty by historical circumstances and often supported them with finances obtained through painting. On the other hand, he often rejected commissions from wealthy celebrities.