First Masterpiece of Chinese Painting

"The Admonitions handscroll, now in the British Museum, displays the famous 'gossamer brush line' historically associated with the master Gu Kaizhi. The incisive portrayals of emperors and court ladies also exemplify his renowned ability to capture the spirit of his subjects. Although it bears the hallmarks of a masterpiece, comparative evidence now suggests that it was not actually painted by Gu Kaizhi himself, but by a fifth- or sixth-century artist working in the archaic Gu Kaizhi tradition." "This fascinating book guides the reader through the details of the scroll's dating, authorship and provenance, explaining how the painting relates to Gu Kaizhi and reflects his artistic genius. New photography brings this delicate and rarely exhibited work to life, scene by scene. The author also explores the scroll's calligraphy, its history over many dynasties as it passed through the hands of collectors and connoisseurs, and its iconic status in the modern world."--BOOK JACKET.