明 劉俊 納諫圖 軸|Remonstrating with the emperor
late 15th–early 16th century
Medium
Hanging scroll; ink and color on silk
Dimensions
Image: 65 1/2 × 41 3/4 in. (166.4 × 106 cm) Overall with mounting: 9 ft. 8 in. × 50 in. (294.6 × 127 cm) Overall with knobs: 9 ft. 8 in. × 54 in. (294.6 × 137.2 cm)
Classification
Paintings
Culture & Period
China · Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Ex coll.: C. C. Wang Family, Gift of Oscar L. Tang Family, 2005
Accession Number
2005.494.3
Rights
Public Domain
Tags
Art Historical Context
Behold the majestic *Remonstrating with the* (*納諫圖*), a hanging scroll masterpiece by Liu Jun from China's Ming dynasty (late 15th– 16th century).ed in ink and color on silk, this work measures over 9 feet tall when fully mounted, designed for intimate scholarly contemplation or grand imperial display. Such scrolls were prized in literati culture, unrolled to reveal layered narratives amid lush gardens of flowers and trees. The painting captures a pivotal Confucian ideal: a loyal minister boldly advising—or remonstrating with—the emperor, surrounded by courtiers in flowing robes. Emperors and officials dominate the scene, embodying Ming virtues of moral governance and hierarchical harmony. Liu Jun's precise brushwork brings dynamic figures to life against a verdant backdrop, blending meticulous ink outlines with vibrant colors—a hallmark of Ming figure painting that elevated everyday moral tales to artistic splendor. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection, this gift from distinguished families invites us to ponder timeless leadership lessons. Gaze closely at the expressive faces and intricate details, and feel the weight of imperial counsel across centuries.