Laozi Riding an Ox
1598-1652
Chen Hongshou brings a touch of whimsy to this classic Taoist scene, depicting the ancient sage Laozi perched atop a sturdy ox. Notice the sage's exaggerated, almost caricature-like features—a hallmark of Chen's eccentric style that poked fun at traditional portraiture while honoring his subjects. As Laozi rides westward (legend says he left China on an ox to write the Tao Te Ching), he carries a fan and a gourd, looking back with a knowing gaze past delicate bamboo and blooming flowers. It's a perfect blend of spiritual gravity and playful artistic rebellion from the late Ming dynasty.
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