As the Qingming Festival approaches, the ancients’ paintings in ink and wash convey a sense of charm and melancholy

In Gong Kai’s “Touring Mount Zhongshan”, Zhong Kui led his younger sister on a night outing. The little ghosts carried sedan chairs and lanterns. It was absurd and amusing. Centuries later, Wu Changshuo painted “Drunk Zhong Kui” and let Zhong Kui appear in a dazed state with his eyes glazed over while his eyebrows were raised upright. He etched his resentment towards the late Qing Dynasty into Zhong Kui’s whiskers. This profound reflection on reality became even more profound in the atmosphere of mourning and remembrance during the Qingming Festival.

When the gentle drizzle of Qingming Festival falls, it is not only a time to remember the deceased, but also a good season for spring outings and enjoying the scenery. Tomioka Tessai recreated the cultural scene of literati gatherings and joyous times through “The Gathering at the West Garden”. By integrating emotions with the atmosphere of feasting and touring, the literati and scholars gathered around the mountains and waters, enjoying the flowing water, good wine, writing and painting. The blooming spring scenery, the lush trees, and the gurgling streams all tell the story of the vitality of life.

From Wu Changshuo’s “Zhong kui” painting to Tomioka Tessai’s “The Gathering at the West Garden”, the ancient Chinese view of Qingming Festival was not only a commemoration of the deceased but also a reflection on reality and a love for nature and life.