| dc.description.abstract | Zhou Xiang (1820-1875) was an important painter in the late Qing Dynasty who was born in Xiushui County (Jiaxing), Zhejiang Province. He traveled extensively throughout Jiangnan and had connections. He lived for 56 years, which is not a long lifespan, but he became well-known in the art world before 40. Even after his death, he had a profound influence on the later generations of the Shanghai School海上畫派 and Lingnan School嶺南畫派. However, most studies of Zhou Xiang today only provide brief introductions or place him within the context of his friend Ren Xiong (任熊, 1823-1857). There are few articles discuss his artistic achievements. This paper focuses on his life and accomplishments, drawing mainly on Fan Hu Caotang Yigao范湖草堂遺稿and Fan Hu Caotang Diary范湖草堂日記, as well as first-hand documentary materials such as illustrations, friends′ diaries, writings, and letters. Through these materials, we gain a more in-depth and comprehensive understanding of Zhou Xiang′s life, friendship circle, and the formation of his artistic reputation. It is also confirmed that Zhou Xiang was one of the important figures in the 19th century art circle who brought the Suzhou style to Shanghai through his frequent travels between the two cities and participation in many literary gatherings. In addition, we analyze his paintings and inscriptions, not only to shape his personal style but also to fill in some of the gaps that have been neglected by art history.
The paper is divided into three chapters based on Zhou Xiang′s main activities. The first chapter presents his early life and connections during the Opium War鴉片戰爭in Hangzhou and Hubei. We also construct his painting philosophy through his poetry inscriptions, and clarifies his artistic relationship with Ren Xiong, suggesting that Ren was mainly influenced by Zhou Xiang in flower painting. The second chapter focuses on Zhou Xiang′s experiences and friendship circle upon his return to Suzhou, during the turmoil of the Taiping Rebellion太平天國之亂, his evacuation to Shanghai, and his political career. During this time, he not only had a commanding presence in the art world but also reached the peak of his political career. The third chapter centers on his life after dismissing from office and living in Suzhou. It explores his interactions with many celebrated collectors in Suzhou, and analyzes his painting style to investigate his influence on the later Shanghai School and Lingnan School. | en_US |