That Which Holds a Taste of the Classics Pavilion 1871 - 1933

This small ink tablet, “That Which Holds a Taste of the Classics Pavilion” by Jian Guzhai, is intricately carved. It's amazing to think about the kind of tools and concentration it would take to make something like this. The surface is matte, almost like graphite, and the image emerges from a background of careful cuts and scrapes. The pavilion depicted is almost overwhelmed by the natural forms above. The shapes create a sense of depth, with layers of texture building up the scene. Take a look at the upper part of the ink stick. Notice the way the artist has carved the trees, each branch and leaf rendered with incredible detail. The textures create the image, but the artist also had to remove material to create the negative spaces. These are what allow your eye to rest, to take in the whole image. It reminds me of Elizabeth Murray, who also embraced ambiguity in her work. And while Murray's work is bold and colorful, both artists show how form and space can coexist to create a feeling.