Eight Views of the Xiao and Xiang Rivers
Eight Views of the Xiao and Xiang Rivers
  • Formerly attributed to An Gyeon (active, 15th century)
  • Joseon Dynasty, first half of 16th century
  • Ink on silk
  • duk 3144

This painting follows the style of the An Gyeon School. In each panel, hills and mountains are placed to either the left or right side of the composition, emphasizing the broad expanse of water and creating a sense of deep space and distant atmosphere. A few trees stand on the hills, and figures appear throughout, either going about their daily lives or traveling through nature. The third panel, Night Rain over the Xiao and Xiang, is the only one without human figures, likely intended to highlight the quiet mood and presence of wind and rain in the stillness of night. In the fourth and seventh panels, Sails Returning from a Distant Shore and Fishing Village in the Evening Glow, the boundary between the river and sky becomes blurred, making the boats appear as if they are floating in the sky.