Ancient Wood and Stone《古木寿石图轴》

Luo Mu (1622–1706)
Also known as Fanniu, Yun’an, and Muxingzhe, Luo Mu was a celebrated painter and poet from Ningdu, Jiangxi Province. Later in life, he resided in Baihuazhou, Nanchang. Known for his kindness and literary talent, he excelled in landscapes, trees, and stones, earning recognition as the founder of the “Jiangxi School” of painting.

Luo Mu’s artistic journey began under the guidance of Wei Shichuang and drew inspiration from the styles of Huang Gongwang and Dong Qichang. However, his works also reflect significant influence from Shen Zhou, particularly in their vivid ink tonalities and dynamic charm. His distinctive brushwork, combining weight with agility, contributed to his enduring legacy in Chinese art history.

“Ancient Wood and Stone”
This painting, created on raw paper with a wet brush, features thick ink to outline ancient trees and stones. The rough yet clear strokes evoke a sense of antiquity and strength. Two old trees, adorned with tender new leaves, stand beside proud and enduring stones, symbolizing the renewal of life in spring and the promise of longevity.

The piece is inscribed:
“Painted by Yun’an Luo Mu in the guest house in Hanjiang,” accompanied by two seals reading “Luo Mu’s Seal” and “Fanniu.” These details suggest it was created during Luo’s time in Yangzhou.

While the painting’s robust style and spirited execution suggest the vitality of Luo’s prime years, it also reflects profound emotion and artistic maturity. The work’s theme of rebirth and resilience makes it a fitting piece for celebrating longevity, showcasing Luo Mu’s brilliance and depth as an artist.

罗牧（1622—1706后），字饭牛，别号云庵、牧行者，江西宁都人，侨居南昌百花洲。为人敦厚，工诗擅画，尤长于山水木石，笔意厚重而能灵动，是“江西派”的开派大家。史载初从魏石床学画，又远师黄公望、董其昌，从其画风看其实也得益于沈周颇多，墨韵灿然，颇具韵味。

此作用生纸湿笔，以浓墨重勾古木及石头，笔墨苍拙清润，挥洒淋漓，高古沉厚之气扑面而来。画中绘两株枯槎老树上再添新叶，旁边石头傲立坚挺，寓意枯木逢春、寿比巨石坚，是祝寿题材的画作。款书：云庵罗牧画于邗江客舍。款下钤“罗牧之印”、“饭牛”二白文印。可知作于扬州。从风格看，没有七十岁以后的迟滞颓唐感，创作时间或在盛年，堪称是其直抒胸臆的精品。