Wang Yuanqi 王原祁

Wang Yuanqi (1642–1715) was a prominent Chinese painter and a leading figure of the Qing dynasty's Orthodox School of painting. Born in Taicang, Jiangsu province, he was a descendant of a family of scholars and artists, which greatly influenced his artistic development. Wang Yuanqi is renowned for his landscape paintings, which drew inspiration from the classical styles of the Yuan dynasty masters, particularly Huang Gongwang and Ni Zan. His work is characterized by a meticulous brushwork and a deep understanding of traditional Chinese aesthetics, contributing significantly to the literati painting movement. As a member of the "Four Wangs," his influence extended through his role as a court painter and art theorist, shaping the trajectory of Chinese landscape painting. Wang Yuanqi's legacy is preserved in his contributions to the canon of Chinese art, where he is celebrated for his scholarly approach and adherence to classical techniques.