The Birth of Landscape Painting in China

The Birth of Landscape Painting in China by Michael Sullivan delves into the origins and early development of one of China’s most significant artistic traditions—landscape painting. Inspired by the Sung painter Kuo Hsi’s question, "Why does the virtuous man take delight in landscapes?" Sullivan explores how Chinese landscape painters created more than mere representations of nature; their works symbolized the inner life and harmony of the natural world, offering a form of spiritual and emotional rejuvenation to those who viewed them.

In contrast to European classical landscapes, which often carry mythological or poetic allusions, Chinese landscape paintings embody a broader, more philosophical view of life. Through the depiction of rocks, trees, mountains, and water, these paintings convey a sense of universal balance and interconnectedness. Sullivan’s book uncovers the roots of this symbolic language and traces its evolution, presenting a rich and thoughtful exploration of early Chinese art.

Though the material is fragmentary, the author provides a detailed summary at the end to help readers navigate the complexities of this subject. The Birth of Landscape Painting in China offers both art enthusiasts and scholars an invaluable introduction to the profound cultural and aesthetic significance of landscape painting in Chinese history.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1962.