Fine Large Chinese Republic Period scholarly ink and watercolour landscape by 文良, "The River Runs Deep", 1940s

A fine Chinese Republic Period ink and watercolour landscape, this piece is titled “The River Runs Deep” which is a traditional Chinese allusion to the river of history. The full inscription reads as thus “源遠流長//辛已年//文良寫於三江書院”, and our interpretation is below.

辛已年 refers to a year in the Chinese traditional 60 year cycle, with the previous two being 1941 and 1881 respectively. From the rich colours and evocative ink details, this piece was likely composed and painted circa the 1940s, placing this within the Chinese Republic Period.

文良 is the artist’s pen name, 寫於三江書院 indicates that this was painted in Sanjiang Academy, which was first decreed by Emperor Kangxi and later revived from the Qianlong to Guangxi period. Sanjiang County (which translates as Three Rivers) is a beautiful locale rich in history, and this likely refers to the location where the artist composed this painting. 

The artist’s choice of title and the locale inscription indicates rich scholarly allusions, with the mountain river landscape being classically composed and well-executed. The colours are vivid and bring the life the beautiful scenery of the Sanjiang landscape. A collectible and artistic piece. 

This painting is in a later frame which compliments the piece nicely and is ready for display.

Price marked at $800 AUD.

Framed measurements: 80 by 63cm

Excellent vintage condition.