Student Artwork Guide
Copyright This work is in the public domain. Xu Beihong died in 1953; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 2023.
In context
Running Script — Xu Beihong
The original measures 61 × 39 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.
Shaded: the lifetime of Xu Beihong (1895–1953)
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Measured from the image
Main colour
Gray #797569
Catalogued palette
Artist and museum
Born in Yixing, China
Xu Beihong, born Xu Shoukang in 1895 in the tranquil town of Yixing, Jiangsu province, stands as a monumental figure in 20th-century Chinese art. His life was a compelling narrative of artistic evolution, dedicated to forging a new path for Chinese painting—one that harmoniously blended the rich traditions of his homeland with the innovations of Western art. From humble beginnings steeped in classical learning and traditional brushwork under the tutelage of his father, Xu Dazhang, a struggling artist himself, young Beihong’s early life was marked by both artistic promise and economic hardship. This formative period instilled within him not only technical skill but also a deep appreciation for Chinese culture and a resilient spirit that would define his career. The family's itinerant existence, painting portraits and landscapes to make ends meet, exposed him to the realities of rural China and fueled an early ambition to elevate the status of art and artists. A pivotal moment arrived when he adopted the name “Beihong,” meaning "sad wild goose," a reflection perhaps of his youthful anxieties and aspirations.
Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to modernize Chinese art, Xu Beihong embarked on a transformative journey to Europe in 1917. Initially studying in Tokyo, he soon secured a coveted scholarship to the prestigious École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. This period proved crucial in shaping his artistic philosophy and technique. Immersed in the heart of European art, he meticulously studied oil painting and drawing, mastering Western principles of perspective, composition, and realism. While embracing these new techniques, Xu Beihong remained critical of certain modernist trends prevalent at the time, favoring instead the classical traditions he encountered. He adopted the French name "Ju Péon" during his stay, a testament to his immersion in European culture. However, it was not merely technical skill that he sought; he aimed to understand the underlying principles of Western art and adapt them to revitalize Chinese painting—a vision articulated in his later writings and teachings. This period laid the foundation for his unique artistic style, characterized by a powerful synthesis of Eastern aesthetics and Western techniques.
Upon returning to China in 1927, Xu Beihong embarked on a prolific career marked by groundbreaking works that captured the spirit of a nation undergoing profound change. He quickly became renowned for his dynamic depictions of horses and birds—motifs that transcended mere representation to become powerful symbols of strength, freedom, and national pride. His horses, in particular, are celebrated for their muscularity, energy, and expressive power, often depicted galloping across vast landscapes with a sense of untamed spirit. Galloping Horse, perhaps his most iconic work, embodies this perfectly—a testament to the vitality and resilience of the Chinese people. Beyond these signature subjects, Xu Beihong also excelled in portraiture and historical painting, demonstrating his mastery of both oil painting and traditional ink wash techniques. His style was characterized by a unique blend of bold brushstrokes, precise delineation, and a masterful command of light and shadow. He seamlessly integrated Western perspective and composition into the fluidity of Chinese brushwork, creating a visual language that was both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Foolish Old Man Who Removed the Mountains, inspired by a traditional Chinese fable, exemplifies his ability to imbue classical themes with modern energy and social commentary.
Xu Beihong’s impact extended far beyond his own artistic creations; he was also a pioneering art educator who profoundly shaped the development of modern Chinese art education. After returning to China, he held teaching positions at several prestigious universities, including National Central University and Peking University, where he tirelessly advocated for curriculum reform. He championed the incorporation of Western sketching and oil painting techniques into traditional Chinese art programs, believing that this integration was essential for revitalizing Chinese artistic expression. Following the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, he became president of the Central Academy of Fine Arts and chairman of the China Artists Association, further solidifying his influence on the nation’s artistic landscape. He trained generations of artists who went on to become leading figures in Chinese art, carrying forward his vision of a modern yet culturally grounded aesthetic. Xu Beihong's emphasis on artistic conception, the importance of life experiences, and the integration of Eastern and Western traditions left an indelible mark on Chinese art history, cementing his legacy as one of its most influential figures. His work continues to inspire artists and captivate audiences worldwide, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of art to bridge cultures and transcend boundaries.
On show in Beijing, People's Republic of China
Nestled within the vibrant heart of Beijing, the CAFA Art Museum stands as a profound testament to China’s rich artistic heritage and its dynamic contemporary evolution. Affiliated with the prestigious Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA), an institution whose roots stretch back to 1918, this museum is far more than a mere repository of masterpieces; it is a living, breathing center for academic exploration, cultural preservation, and vibrant artistic exchange. To walk through its halls is to traverse centuries of creative expression, witnessing the subtle shifts in aesthetic sensibilities and the enduring power of human imagination. The museum’s very existence mirrors the journey of a nation—a story of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to artistic excellence that bridges the gap between ancient tradition and modern vision.
The architectural experience of the museum is itself a masterpiece of dialogue between tradition and modernity. Conceived by the renowned Japanese architect Arata Isozaki and completed in 2008, the building serves as a striking example of architectural ingenuity. The design seamlessly blends contemporary aesthetics with subtle nods to
traditional Chinese principles
, creating a space where clean lines and spacious galleries are bathed in ample natural light. This luminosity fosters an atmosphere of deep contemplation, allowing the viewer to connect intimately with the works on display. Clad in a sophisticated grey-patterned stone, the exterior harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding campus, while the interior structure is thoughtfully engineered to accommodate everything from delicate Ming dynasty scrolls to large-scale, immersive contemporary installations.
The true soul of the CAFA Art Museum lies in its extraordinary collection, a treasure trove that spans dynasties and artistic movements. Collectors and art lovers will find themselves captivated by the museum's celebrated assemblage of over 2,000 Chinese scroll paintings from the Ming Dynasty. These exquisite works offer an intimate glimpse into an era renowned for its refined brushwork, poetic landscapes, and profound philosophical themes. Yet, the museum does not dwell solely in the past; it also boasts a significant collection of 20th-century Chinese art, showcasing the dramatic evolution of expression during periods of immense social and political change. From intricate modern designs to evocative sculptures and architectural models, the diversity of the holdings highlights the multifaceted nature of Chinese creativity.
Beyond its permanent treasures, the CAFA Art Museum functions as a dynamic hub for artistic innovation through its rotating exhibitions. The museum regularly hosts temporary shows that feature both established masters and emerging talents, ensuring that the visitor experience is constantly evolving. These exhibitions often explore cutting-edge themes, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and sparking critical dialogue within the global art community. By integrating rigorous academic research with accessible public outreach, the museum cultivates a deeper understanding of Chinese art for audiences of all ages. It remains a cornerstone of the cultural landscape, a place where the echoes of history inform the present and inspire the limitless possibilities of the future.
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Look closely
Running Script — Xu Beihong
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