“Going on a Mission”(出警图) is a significant painting from the Ming Dynasty, often paired with the “Entering the Palace” (入跸图) to form a comprehensive depiction of the emperor’s ceremonial journeys. Together, these works are referred to as the “Going on a Mission and Entering the Palace” series.

Content of the Painting

• The “Going on a Mission” painting portrays the emperor riding out of the city, typically from the city gate, to visit the tombs located about forty-five kilometers away from the capital.

• In contrast, The “Entering the Palace” painting illustrates the emperor’s return from a pilgrimage to the tombs, specifically depicting his journey back to the palace via water. This scroll is notably lengthy, exceeding thirty meters, and features over nine hundred attendants, guards, and officials, showcasing the grandeur of the emperor’s return.

Artistic Features

These two scrolls are not only remarkable for their length but also for their intricate details and the portrayal of a vast array of characters and ceremonial elements. The paintings are designed in a horizontal format, with the “Going on a Mission” typically viewed from right to left, while the “Entering the Palace” is viewed from left to right.

Historical Context

• The creation of these paintings is closely associated with Emperor Wanli (朱翊钧), who ruled during the Ming Dynasty. Historical records indicate that during his reign, the emperor would ride out for ceremonies and return by boat, which aligns with the themes depicted in these artworks.

• The artists of these scrolls remain anonymous, but it is believed that they were created by multiple court painters, reflecting the high artistic standards of the Ming Dynasty.

Cultural Significance

The “Going on a Mission and Entering the Palace” paintings serves not only as an artistic masterpiece but also as a vital historical document that captures the ceremonial practices and hierarchical structure of the Ming court. Through its detailed representation, it provides insights into the cultural and political life of the time, making it an essential resource for understanding Ming Dynasty history and art.

Going on a Mission(出警图)

Entering the Palace(入跸图)