Glossary

5.2 Figure painting and its religious themes

4 min read•august 13, 2024

Chinese figure painting brought religious themes to life, depicting deities and sages from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. These works showcased spiritual pursuits like enlightenment, immortality, and virtue, using symbolic attributes and gestures to convey meaning.

The art form evolved from abstract representations to more realistic and expressive styles over time. Religious figure paintings served as devotional aids, didactic tools, and expressions of faith, helping practitioners connect with spiritual beings and learn moral lessons.

Religious Figures in Chinese Painting

Major Religions and Their Pantheons

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  • Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism are the three main religions represented in Chinese figure painting
    • Each religion has its own pantheon of deities, bodhisattvas, immortals, and sages commonly depicted
  • Buddhist figures frequently portrayed include Shakyamuni Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, Maitreya Buddha, Guanyin (Avalokiteśvara) Bodhisattva, and the Eighteen Arhats
    • Often shown in serene meditation poses or expounding the dharma
  • Taoist figure paintings feature immortals like the Eight Immortals, Laozi, the Jade Emperor, the Queen Mother of the West, and the Three Pure Ones
    • Typically depicted in ethereal, mystical settings or engaging in alchemical practices
  • Confucian figure paintings primarily portray Confucius himself, along with his disciples and other renowned scholars
    • Often shown in scholarly settings, engaged in teaching, writing, or contemplation

Common Themes and Spiritual Pursuits

  • The pursuit of enlightenment is a central theme, especially in Buddhist figure paintings
    • Depicts the path to spiritual awakening and liberation from suffering
  • The attainment of immortality is a key focus in Taoist works
    • Represents the quest for eternal life and transcendence of the physical realm
  • The cultivation of virtue and wisdom is emphasized across religious traditions
    • Highlights the importance of moral character and self-improvement
  • Harmony between humans and nature is another recurring theme
    • Reflects the ideal of living in balance and unity with the natural world

Iconography of Religious Figure Paintings

Symbolic Attributes and Gestures

  • Religious figures are often depicted with specific attributes, poses, and gestures that convey their identity, status, and spiritual qualities
    • Understanding these iconographic elements is crucial for interpreting meaning and significance
  • Buddhas and bodhisattvas frequently shown with halos or mandorlas surrounding their heads or bodies
    • Signifies their divine status and enlightenment
  • Specific mudras (hand gestures) symbolize different aspects of Buddhist teachings or powers
    • Examples include the abhaya (fearlessness) and dhyana (meditation) mudras
  • Taoist immortals portrayed with emblems or objects associated with their legends and abilities
    • The Eight Immortals each have a unique attribute (e.g., Lü Dongbin's sword, He Xiangu's lotus)

Color Symbolism and Landscape Elements

  • Colors carry symbolic meaning in religious figure paintings
    • White associated with purity and mourning
    • Red represents good fortune and joy
    • Black symbolizes mystery and the unknown
  • Landscapes and natural elements in the background often have symbolic significance
    • Mountains represent spiritual ascent and attainment
    • Water symbolizes purity, renewal, and the flow of life
    • Pine trees embody longevity, resilience, and steadfastness
    • Plum blossoms signify perseverance and hope amidst adversity

Stylistic Evolution of Figure Painting

Six Dynasties Period (220-589 CE)

  • Figure paintings characterized by linear, abstract forms and flat, decorative patterns
    • Reflects influence of Buddhist art from Central Asia and India
    • Emphasis on spiritual essence rather than naturalistic representation
  • Examples include the murals of the Dunhuang caves and the Admonitions Scroll attributed to Gu Kaizhi

Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE)

  • Figure painting reached new heights of realism and expressiveness
    • Greater emphasis on modeling, shading, and representation of volume and space
  • Influenced by cosmopolitan culture of Tang court and growing popularity of esoteric Buddhism
    • Incorporation of foreign artistic styles and motifs from along the Silk Road
  • Renowned painters include , known for his dynamic and lifelike Buddhist murals

Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE)

  • Shift towards more introspective, subtle, and naturalistic styles
    • In line with philosophical and aesthetic ideals of Neo-Confucianism
  • Painters sought to capture inner essence and spirit of subjects rather than just outward appearance
    • Use of softer, more muted colors and looser, more expressive brushwork
  • Notable figures include Liang Kai, famous for his minimalist yet evocative Chan (Zen) Buddhist paintings

Yuan (1271-1368 CE) and Ming (1368-1644 CE) Dynasties

  • Figure painting became more individualistic and expressive
    • Greater emphasis on brushwork, calligraphy, and personal style
  • Reflected growing influence of literati culture and ideal of the scholar-artist
    • Painting as a means of self-expression and cultivation rather than just representation
  • Significant artists include Ni Zan, known for his spare landscapes with solitary figures

Figure Painting for Religious Propagation

Devotional Aids and Objects of Veneration

  • Figure paintings served as devotional aids and objects of veneration in Buddhist contexts
    • Helped practitioners visualize and connect with enlightened beings
    • Used in rituals, offerings, and meditation practices
  • Examples include icons of Buddhas and bodhisattvas enshrined in temples and altars

Didactic Tools and Moral Exemplars

  • Figure paintings functioned as didactic tools, illustrating key moments from religious narratives
    • Conveyed moral and spiritual lessons to viewers
    • Scenes from the lives of the Buddha, bodhisattvas, and saints were particularly popular
  • Confucian figure paintings often depicted exemplary scholars and sages as models of virtue and wisdom
    • Reinforced the importance of education, self-cultivation, and moral integrity
    • Inspired viewers to emulate their virtuous qualities and actions

Social and Religious Self-Fashioning

  • Commissioning and display of religious figure paintings asserted the piety, status, and cultural sophistication of patrons
    • Demonstrated their devotion, wealth, and artistic taste
    • Served as a means of social and religious self-fashioning
  • Paintings donated to temples or displayed in private homes became expressions of faith and identity
    • Reflected the religious affiliations, aspirations, and values of individuals and communities

Key Terms to Review (18)

A record of the study of painting: A record of the study of painting refers to the documentation and analysis of artistic practices, techniques, and themes that define figure painting throughout history, particularly in relation to religious themes. This term highlights how artists have interpreted and represented human figures in sacred contexts, reflecting spiritual beliefs, cultural values, and societal norms. It encompasses various styles, movements, and influences that have shaped the visual portrayal of figures in religious art.
Ancestor Worship: Ancestor worship is a practice in which the deceased are honored and revered, often involving rituals, offerings, and ceremonies to maintain a connection between the living and the ancestral spirits. This tradition is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and is closely tied to the concepts of filial piety and respect for family lineage, influencing various aspects of sacred arts, rituals, and artistic expressions.
Buddhist iconography: Buddhist iconography refers to the visual representation and symbolic imagery associated with the teachings of Buddhism. It includes depictions of the Buddha, bodhisattvas, and various symbols, each conveying specific meanings that reflect the spiritual narratives and beliefs of Buddhism. This rich tradition helps convey complex religious themes and is often found in figure painting, where these images serve both artistic and devotional purposes.
Daoist symbolism: Daoist symbolism refers to the use of visual and artistic representations in Daoism that convey deep philosophical and spiritual meanings, often emphasizing the harmony between humans and nature. These symbols are integral to understanding the religious themes in figure painting, as they express the fundamental concepts of Daoism, such as balance, the flow of life energy (Qi), and the interconnection of all things. Artists employ these symbols to communicate complex ideas about existence, morality, and the universe.
Devotional imagery: Devotional imagery refers to visual representations that are created to inspire worship, meditation, or contemplation, often depicting sacred figures, scenes, or symbols that are significant in a religious context. This type of art serves not only as a focal point for personal devotion but also as a means to communicate religious narratives and teachings to a wider audience. It plays a vital role in shaping the experience of the faithful and reinforcing the tenets of their beliefs.
Feng shui: Feng shui is an ancient Chinese practice that focuses on harmonizing individuals with their surrounding environment to promote balance, energy flow, and well-being. It incorporates the arrangement of spaces, structures, and objects to achieve optimal energy flow, known as 'qi' (or 'chi'), which influences various aspects of life including health, relationships, and prosperity.
Gongbi: Gongbi is a traditional Chinese painting technique characterized by meticulous brushwork and attention to detail, often used for figure painting. This style emphasizes precision and realistic representation, making it particularly effective for conveying religious themes and narratives through visual art. By focusing on intricate details, gongbi allows artists to express the spiritual significance of figures and stories within a religious context.
Guohua: Guohua is a traditional Chinese painting style that emphasizes the use of water-based ink and colors on paper or silk, often incorporating elements of calligraphy. This art form reflects not only aesthetic beauty but also profound philosophical and spiritual themes, deeply connected to cultural identity and religious beliefs.
Ming Dynasty: The Ming Dynasty was a major Chinese dynasty that lasted from 1368 to 1644, known for its trade expansion, cultural achievements, and strong centralized governance. This period is significant in the development of sacred arts, influencing artistic expression, spiritual beliefs, and architectural innovations that shaped China's cultural landscape.
Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting: The Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting is a significant Chinese painting manual published in the late 17th century that serves as a comprehensive guide for artists. It combines theoretical aspects of painting with practical instructions, covering various styles and techniques, and highlights the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of art, connecting closely with religious themes in figure painting.
Mythological narratives: Mythological narratives are traditional stories that explain the beliefs, customs, and natural phenomena of a culture through a series of symbolic events and characters. These narratives often feature gods, heroes, and supernatural elements that convey moral lessons or cultural values. They play a significant role in the development of religious themes and are frequently depicted in various art forms, including figure painting, which visually interprets these stories to communicate deeper meanings.
Ritual art: Ritual art refers to creative expressions that are used within specific religious or spiritual practices, serving to enhance, symbolize, or enact the rituals associated with those beliefs. These artworks can include paintings, sculptures, or performances that are integral to communal ceremonies, spiritual rites, and worship. The significance of ritual art often lies in its ability to connect participants to their cultural and religious identities while invoking a sense of the divine or transcendent.
Shan shui: Shan shui, literally meaning 'mountain-water,' refers to a traditional Chinese style of landscape painting that emphasizes the harmony between nature and the human spirit. This art form is characterized by its use of brushwork and ink wash techniques to depict majestic mountains, flowing water, and other natural elements, symbolizing deeper spiritual and philosophical meanings. In shan shui, landscapes are not just backdrops; they embody a connection to the universe and reflect the values of Taoism and Buddhism.
Spiritual representation: Spiritual representation refers to the visual and symbolic depiction of spiritual themes, figures, or beliefs, often in artistic forms such as painting, sculpture, or other media. This concept plays a significant role in how religious narratives are communicated and understood through art, providing viewers with a means to connect with the divine or the sacred. By capturing essential qualities of spiritual figures or themes, these representations can evoke emotional and contemplative responses from the audience.
Tang Dynasty: The Tang Dynasty was a significant imperial dynasty in Chinese history that lasted from 618 to 907 AD, known for its cultural, political, and economic flourishing. This era is often regarded as a high point of Chinese civilization, influencing various aspects of art, literature, and religious practices that would shape the future of sacred arts in China.
Wu daozi: Wu Daozi was a prominent Chinese painter during the Tang Dynasty, known for his exceptional figure painting and his ability to convey spiritual themes through art. His work is celebrated for blending the natural world with Daoist philosophy, reflecting a deep understanding of human emotions and the spiritual realm. Wu Daozi's influence extends into various aspects of Chinese sacred arts, especially in representing religious themes and cosmology.
Xieyi: Xieyi, often translated as 'freehand' or 'sketching,' is a traditional Chinese painting style that emphasizes expressive brushwork and spontaneity rather than precise representation. This style is particularly significant in figure painting as it allows the artist to convey emotion and spiritual themes, capturing the essence of the subject in a more interpretive manner.
Zhang Daqian: Zhang Daqian was a renowned Chinese painter and art historian, active during the 20th century, celebrated for his mastery in traditional Chinese painting styles, particularly figure painting and flower-and-bird painting. His works are often infused with religious themes and philosophical influences from Buddhism and Daoism, reflecting the deep connections between art, religion, and culture in Chinese sacred arts.
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