“Six Persimmons” The Revolutionary painting by the Chan Monk Muxi
<p>The world of Chinese painting has long been characterized by its adherence to tradition and the profound influence of Confucianism. However, amidst this backdrop of conformity, one figure stood out as a revolutionary: Chan monk Muxi. Muxi’s famous painting, “Six Persimmons,” defied the contemporary literati and scholar painters of his time, who found his subject choice vulgar and his approach to art decidedly crude and unorthodox.</p>
<p>During the time of Chan monk Muxi in the 13th century, the Chinese art world was firmly rooted in Confucian principles. The orthodox school of Chinese painting upheld the Confucian theory of “formalized” experiences. According to Confucius, the purpose of art was to convey moral and intellectual values, and paintings were meant to be appreciated through intellectual and literary inferences. The traditional Chinese paintings were often laden with symbolism, requiring viewers to interpret the hidden meanings and allegories within them. It was a cerebral experience, where the viewer engaged with the painting through their intellect rather than their emotions.</p>
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