LACMA’s “Ming Masterpieces” gives powerful insight into a dynasty

By Megan Riordon
Staff Writer

“Ming Maserpeices,” currently on display at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, reveals a glimpse of the past not previously available so close to home. The ages of the masterpieces (about 400 years old), as well as their unique representations of Chinese cuture, make this historical exhibit worth viewing.

The Ming Dynasty was the ruling dynasty of China from 1368 to 1644. The exhibit displays the work of 10 prominent painters of the dynasty. Five of the featured artists were notable court painters in the Forbidden City, or the Imperial Palace, in Beijing. The remaining five were craftsmen painters. The artworks were made on silk canvas scrolls and detailed with black ink.

“The Daoist Adept Qin Gao Riding a Carp,” by craftsmen Li Zai, gives viewers a glimpse into a serene picturesque view of Chinese figures lounging by a river. The painting stretches five feet tall and its mystical feel enhances the portrayal of a Daoist reaching “spiritual emancipation.” The spiritual aspect of the painting is intriguing due to its cultural diversity, and it sets it apart from modern artwork.

Several of the painters whose works displayed at the exhibit were from students at an imperial painting academy. This section of the exhibit exemplifies the skills of amatuer artists at the time. Lin Laing’s “Birds and Bamboo,” originally from the Shanghai Museum, depicts intricate birds flitting up a scroll, with their fragile wings glistening on the silken background. This piece shows the technical skill and realism depicted by many Ming artists.

The artwork in the exhibit was meant to project a stable and moral society by depicting peaceful scenes of nature. It also successfully incorporates Daoist mythology. Although depictions of foreign life are interesting at first, the novelty quickly fades and the subjects prove mundane.

Despite the detail and mastery, these artworks are very subtle and use little color. The paintings mix light browns and grays with black ink as the medium. Although its foreign subject matter is not particularly exciting, experiencing a taste of true history while blending ancient Chinese mysticism from one of the oldest dynasties in the world is remarkable. The exhibits delivers a peek into ancient China.

These artworks are on view at LACMA until June 2. Admission is $10.