Ji Sheng
Ming court peddler scene master
Ji Sheng(計盛) was a court painter during the Xuande period of the Ming dynasty, working in the Zhihua Hall. He specialized in figure painting and, along with Lü Wenying, was considered a representative painter of Ming dynasty 'peddler' scenes. His only surviving work is the 'Peddler Scroll'. This piece is housed in the Palace Museum in Beijing, painted on silk with color, and bears the inscription 'Painted by Ji Sheng, court painter of Zhihua Hall', along with the seal 'Jinmen Painter'. The 'Peddler Scroll' continues the tradition of Song dynasty artist Li Song's peddler scenes, showing a peddler arranging his shelves while children admire the items. The shelves are filled with hundreds of small birds, masks, and other toys. The peddler is dressed like a military official, and the children are in elaborate clothing, reflecting courtly aristocratic style, earning it the nickname 'Court Peddler'. The painting follows the Ming court painting style, incorporating imagery of 'five sons passing the imperial exam' and 'six sons reunited', symbolizing blessings for many children. It's considered part of the category of festive court paintings. Similar works include a Ming dynasty lacquer box with a peddler design and Han Sheng’s 'Peddler Paintings'.