Dancing and Singing (Peasants Returning from Work) (detail 1) 

Ma Yuan made this detail from 'Dancing and Singing' around the 13th century using ink and colors on silk, typical materials for the literati in China. The silk support gives a warm tone to the painting, and the ink is applied in washes, building up tonal depth while retaining its liquid character. Ma Yuan was a master of the ‘boneless’ technique, using ink wash without clear outlines to create soft, atmospheric effects. This approach demanded supreme control of the brush, reflecting years of practice. The subject matter of peasants returning from work adds a layer of cultural significance to the artwork. Ma Yuan has depicted their toil with dignity. The painting thus transcends a mere representation of labor, becoming a commentary on the lives and experiences of the working class in Song dynasty China. It shows how the act of making art intertwines with the representation of labor and everyday life.