Shitao

Shitao was a Chinese painter, calligrapher, poet, and seal carver. He was born into the Ming dynasty imperial clan as Zhu Ruoji in 1642 in Quanzhou, Guangxi province. He was a descendant of the elder brother of Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming dynasty. He became a Buddhist monk after the fall of the Ming dynasty in 1644 and adopted the name Shitao, meaning "Stone Wave". He traveled extensively throughout China, visiting famous mountains and rivers, and painting the scenery he saw. He developed a unique style of painting, using bold and expressive brushstrokes, bright and contrasting colors, and innovative compositions. He was influenced by various schools of painting, such as the Yuan dynasty literati painters, the Chan (Zen) Buddhist painters, and the Ming dynasty individualists. He also wrote many poems and essays on painting theory, and carved seals to accompany his works. He was one of the most influential and original painters of the early Qing dynasty. He died of old age in Beijing in 1707. He left behind many traces of his art and wisdom, as well as numerous students and followers who continued his legacy.