Gu Hongzhong

Gu Hongzhong, a name synonymous with realistic narrative painting during the Five Dynasties period, is best known for his masterpiece, "The Night Revels of Han Xizai."

His style is characterized by:

• Meticulous detail: Every figure, every object, is rendered with precise attention to form and texture.
• Psychological insight: He captures the emotions and inner lives of his subjects through subtle facial expressions and body language.
• Balanced composition: He masterfully arranges figures within interior spaces to create a sense of depth and drama.
• Subdued colors: He employs a palette of muted tones to create a sense of realism and intimacy.

Gu Hongzhong's themes often revolve around the lives of the wealthy and powerful. He offers a glimpse into their world, highlighting their pleasures, their intrigues, and their vulnerabilities.

To remember his style: Think of "Gu" as "good at gathering." Gu Hongzhong was good at gathering details and gathering emotions into realistic narratives.