Cheng Zhengkui (1604-1676), Landscape in Light Ochre, hanging scroll

Ink and color on paper 111.5*50 cm

Cheng Zhengkui (1604-1676) is also known by his zi (courtesy name) Duanbo and his hao(literary names) Juling, Qingxi Daoren, Qingxi Laoren and Qingxi Jiushi. He was a native of Xiaogan, Hubei province. Originally named Zhengkui (正葵), he changed the second character of his name to its current form (正揆) following the founding of the Qing dynasty. He earned the jinshi degree (successful candidate in the imperial examination) in 1631 and later served as Vice Minister of Works. In calligraphy, he followed the style of Li Yong. In painting, he initially studied under Dong Qichang but later developed his own distinctive style, often employing blunt brushes and a dry, vigorous, and austere brush-and-ink technique. This hanging scroll demonstrates his masterful use of abbreviated brushwork and light ink to render withered trees and sparse rocks, evoking a profound and contemplative atmosphere.