Signature
Signed YU Cheng-yao in Chinese
With one seal of the artist
+ OVERVIEW
This work depicted Jianmen of Sichuan, a naturally formed barrier of Shu since the Three Kingdoms. The loftiness of the landscape is highlighted through the vertical outlines of the cliffs. A waterfall flows through the rocks with webs of lines, demonstrating the force of nature. Intermittent green lines highlight the luscious forest while forming a stark contrast with the bare rocks on the cliffs. Overlapping mountains stretch far beyond as colours fade into the distance, creating stillness which balances with the vivid foreground. Sichuan is the birthplace of Yu Cheng-yao, while Jianmen carries a rich historical background, making this a symbolic scene to the artist. The full-framed structure reflects the deep understanding towards the landscape and his awe towards Mother Nature. As the famous poet Li Bai of Tang dynasty wrote, Jianmen is a solid guard by nature. This landscape protects a nation and its people, hence, the civilization that burgeons throughout history.