Xu Zhangshi’s Star Source Image Scroll

[Xu Zhang Shi Xingyuan Statue Volume]

“Shi Xingyuan Statue” Volume, the 20th year of Qianlong’s reign in the Qing Dynasty (1755), painted by Xu Zhang, in paper, with colors, 42 centimeters vertically and 58.5 centimeters horizontally
This painting has no style. According to Li Shizhuo’s inscription after the volume, it is known that this painting was painted by Xu Zhang. The picture shows an old man sitting under a big tree by the lake, his left hand resting on the ground, his right hand naturally resting on his knee, and the root of the tree beside him holding a piano. The trees are surrounded by trees, and some tender branches are growing among the dead branches of the old tree, adding a new green to the picture. After the volume, there are 5 inscriptions and postscripts by Shen Deqian, Li Kai, Li Shizhuo, and Jie An. Among the inscriptions and postscripts, the most important one is the one written by Jie An, which provides important information for studying the creation time of this painting. Jie An is entitled to a collection poem, which reads: “In the summer and April of Yi Hai, Shi Xingyuan’s old friend celebrated his 60th birthday, and Jie An’s Fu collection poem.” It is clear here that this painting was created in the summer and April of Yi Hai, that is, in the 20th year of Qianlong’s reign of the Qing Dynasty (1755), for Shi Xingyuan’s 60th birthday
The figure in the picture is located between the lakes and mountains, with a natural and elegant environment. There is also a guqin, which appropriately reflects the character characteristics of the figure. The characters’ faces are finely depicted, and their clothing patterns are concise and expressive. The painting method of trees and landscapes is also extremely exquisite, reflecting the author’s various artistic talents.

《石星源像》卷题跋1《石星源像》卷题跋2