Poem on Imperial Gift of an Embroidered Silk: Calligraphy in Cursive Script Style (xingshu)

c. 1525

Wen Zhengming

Wen Zhengming (Chinese, 1470–1559)

Chinese Art

Poem on Imperial Gift of an Embroidered Silk: Calligraphy in Cursive Script Style (xingshu), c. 1525. Wen Zhengming (Chinese, 1470–1559). Hanging scroll, ink on paper; painting only: 343.5 x 93.5 cm (135 1/4 x 36 13/16 in.); overall with knobs: 698.5 x 124.4 cm (275 x 49 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, John L. Severance Fund 1998.169

Original Source

Maker/Artist: Wen Zhengming
Classification: Calligraphy
Formatted Medium: hanging scroll, ink on paper
Medium: hanging, scroll, ink, paper
Dimensions: Painting only: 343.5 x 93.5 cm (135 1/4 x 36 13/16 in.); Overall with knobs: 698.5 x 124.4 cm (275 x 49 in.)
Inscribed: Inscription: The text of the calligraphy, which is also included in his literary compilation, can be translated as follows: From the throne, this exquisite silk was bestowed on me, As I expressed my gratitude to His Majesty by the Goldwater Bridge. This heavenly silk is embroidered with five colors. Resplendent it is, draping over my arm with [designs of] twin dragons. Having received such a gift, I [bowed] in shame over my lack of achievements. Humbly I returned to my rank to observe the grand ceremony. I wish His Majesty shall live on for myriad years, And the sun will always shine upon His trailing robe.
Departments: Chinese Art
Accession Number: 1998.169
Credit Line: John L. Severance Fund
Exhibitions: Power and Possession: Chinese Calligraphy and Inscribed Objects – Chinese Gallery Rotation 240a, 241c, Main Asian Rotation (Gallery 119); July 13 - November 17, 2004.<br>Main Asian Rotation (Gallery 242): November 21, 2013 - July 28, 2014.
Rights Statement: CC0