Sun Wen’s illustrated version of “The Complete Dream of the Red Chamber”

[Loongese]

Sun Wen’s illustrated version of “The Complete Dream of the Red Chamber” (全本红楼梦) is a remarkable artistic achievement that combines traditional Chinese painting techniques with the narrative depth of one of China’s most celebrated literary works.

Overview of the Work

Artist Background: Sun Wen (1818-?) was a painter from Hebei, China, who dedicated 36 years of his life to creating this monumental work. He began the project around 1867 and completed it around 1903, making it his only surviving masterpiece.

Artistic Features: The illustrated version consists of 230 large-scale silk paintings, each measuring approximately 43.3 cm by 76.5 cm.

The artwork employs meticulous gongbi (工笔) techniques, characterized by fine brushwork and vibrant colors, to depict over 3,700 characters and various scenes from the novel. Sun Wen’s style integrates traditional Chinese landscape painting with Western perspective techniques, resulting in a unique visual narrative that captures the essence of the story.

Content Structure: The illustrations begin with a panoramic view of the Grand View Garden (大观园) and sequentially depict the major events of “The Dream of the Red Chamber.” Each chapter is illustrated with varying numbers of paintings, reflecting the complexity and richness of the narrative.

Cultural Significance

Artistic Value: Sun Wen’s work is considered a national treasure and is recognized for its artistic and cultural significance. It has been described as one of the finest illustrated versions of “The Dream of the Red Chamber” produced in the last two centuries, showcasing a high level of artistic achievement and attention to detail.

Exhibitions and Publications: The illustrated version gained international attention when it was first exhibited at the National Museum of China in 2004. Since then, it has been featured in various exhibitions and has been published in multiple languages, including English, French, and Italian, making it accessible to a global audience.

Current Availability: The original paintings are housed in the Lushun Museum in Dalian, China. Recently, a limited edition of the illustrated book has been released, which includes translations and annotations to help international readers appreciate the depth of the original text alongside the illustrations.

Sun Wen’s “The Complete Dream of the Red Chamber” is not only a visual feast but also a significant cultural artifact that bridges literature and art. It offers a comprehensive portrayal of the characters and themes of the novel, making it an essential work for both art lovers and literary enthusiasts alike.

 

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