Cuiwei Temple among Huangshan Peaks
Ink painting on paper/print reproduction • Attributed to Liu Haisu (1896–1994) or his school/followers
Style & Movement
Modern Chinese Literati Painting (New Guohua); incorporating elements of the Huangshan School (Anhui School) tradition.
Medium & Technique
Ink and light color on paper; utilizing 'cun' (texturing) brushstrokes, ink wash, and wet/dry brush techniques characteristic of Chinese shan shui painting.
Creation Period
Mid-to-late 20th Century (likely 1960s-1980s)
Dimensions & Format
Horizontal landscape format (approximately 30x45cm image size), mounted on a paper border.
Subject Description
A classical landscape depiction of Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) featuring distinctive granite peaks, pine trees, and the Cuiwei Temple. The composition uses a shifting perspective with a dense cluster of vertical peaks framing a central clearing. The inscription references the artist's long history with the mountain.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; visible signs of aging including some paper oxidation and minor yellowing consistent with mid-suburban 20th-century paper stock.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $400 USD (as a high-quality reproduction or studio work)
Auction Estimate
$200 - $500 USD
Provenance History
Likely produced as part of a high-quality folio or lithographic portfolio of Huangshan sketches; features printed title 'Cuiwei Temple' at bottom center on the matting.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the modern revitalization of traditional landscape painting in China. Liu Haisu was central to bridging Western techniques with traditional ink painting; his many visits to Huangshan are legendary in modern Chinese art history.
Notable Features
Features a red square artist seal and a vertical calligraphic inscription in the upper right. The printed title '翠微寺' (Cuiwei Temple) on the bottom border indicates it was part of an organized collection or publication.
Condition Issues
Mild tanning of the paper support; possible slight fading of the light color washes; minor edge wear on the mounting paper.
Conservation Recommendations
Display under UV-filtering glass; maintain stable humidity (45-55%) to prevent foxing; use acid-free mounting materials if reframing.