Chen Hongshou (Chinese, 1598/99–1652), Lady Xuanwen Giving Instruction on the Rites of Zhou, 1638, Ming dynasty (1368–1644). Hanging scroll; ink and color on silk. Image: 172.8 x 55.7 cm; Overall: 293.9 x 71 cm; with knobs: 293.9 x 79 cm. Mr. and Mrs. William H. Marlatt Fund 1961.89 © The Cleveland Museum of Art 

Chen Hongshou's long inscription at the top of the painting compares his virtuous aunt with the historical exemplar, Lady Xuanwen.

This painting by Chen Hongshou depicts the story of Xuanwen Jun, or Lady of Literary Propagation, at a venerable age, instructing young scholars on the Confucian classics. It was painted for Chen’s aunt in celebration of her 60th birthday.

Chen’s painting style is archaic in the use of fine outlines and brilliant coloring with mineral pigments. In depicting the figures, he uses the “iron-wire” brush style (fine, even lines) with deliberate control. The faces are elongated and exaggerated. A few ritual bronzes lend the scene an antique flavor.