The Hermit Xu You Resting by a Stream
Medium
Hanging scroll; ink and slight color on silk
Dimensions
232.5 × 88.2 cm · painting: 138.2 × 75.2 cm
Classification
Painting
Department
Chinese Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
John L. Severance Fund
Accession Number
1974.45
Tags
About this artwork
Xu You, a recluse who refused the throne offered to him by legendary Emperor Yao, chose instead to farm on Mount Ji. Sitting under cliffs, his left arm resting on his risen leg and his loose robe revealing his belly, he displays a nonchalant attitude. Xu You is wearing a laborer’s outfit, a short robe and tight leggings, while his composed pose and gentle features reveal his lofty character. The composition shows rising mountains on the left juxtaposed by open space on the far right. Powerful br...