Zhong Kui《钟馗图轴》

Zhang Hong (1577–1652)
Courtesy name Jundu and nickname Hejian, Zhang Hong was a prominent figure in the Wumen painting circles during the late Ming Dynasty. A native of Suzhou, Jiangsu, he was celebrated for his mastery of landscape painting, drawing inspiration from the styles of Shen Zhou and Wen Zhengming. His work traced the lineage of the Four Great Masters of the Yuan Dynasty and was influenced by earlier masters such as Mi Fu, Dong Yuan, and Ju Ran, as well as Li Cheng, Guo Xi, Li Tang, and Xia Gui. Zhang skillfully synthesized the strengths of these traditions while incorporating his own deep commitment to sketching from life.

His landscapes are characterized by steep, towering forms, with clear, moist ink washes that evoke an ancient and serene atmosphere, often depicting the grandeur of mountains and deep ravines.

“Zhong Kui”
Zhang Hong also excelled in figure painting, known for his precise linework and ability to capture both form and spirit. In this depiction of Zhong Kui, the legendary exorcist of evil spirits, the figure’s robust physique and exaggerated features exude vitality and character. The fluid, slender lines of his garments convey a sense of lightness and movement, offering a fresh interpretation of Zhong Kui. Unlike the typical depictions of him as wrathful and imposing, Zhang’s Zhong Kui is imbued with a more approachable and worldly charm, reflecting the artist’s unique perspective.

张宏（1577—1652），字君度，号鹤涧，明末吴门画坛中坚人物，江苏苏州人。善画山水，宗法沈周、文徵明，并上溯元四家和米芾、董源、巨然，又旁参李成、郭熙、李唐、夏圭，融合诸家之长。同时重视写生，画作笔力峭拔，墨色清润，常呈现层峦叠嶂、林壑幽深的古意。

张宏亦擅人物画，线条疏朗，形神俱佳。此画中钟馗躯干伟岸，造型夸张传神，衣纹清圆细劲，造型风格与一般怒目圆睁的钟馗形象不同，更富有生活气息和世俗意味。