Gu Kaizhi (ca. 344-406), is a celebrated painter of ancient China.

According to historical records he was born in Wuxi, Jiangsu province and first painted at Nanjing in 364. In 366 he became an officer (Da Sima Canjun). Later he was promoted to royal officer (Sanji Changshi). He was also a talented poet and calligrapher. He wrote three books about painting theory: On Painting, Introduction of Famous Paintings of Wei and Jin Dynasties and Painting Yuntai Mountain. He wrote: "In figure paintings the clothes and the appearances were not very important. The eyes were the spirit and the decisive factor."

Gu's art is known today through copies of three silk handscroll paintings attributed to him. Many of the major works are in the hands of foreign museums. They are under protection and care, but it is uncertain if China will ever request their return.

Admonitions of the Instructress to the Palace Ladies, a section of the scroll.

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj171/Azjahh/Art%20Museum/GuKaizhiAdmonitions.jpg

Admonitions of the Instructress to the Palace Ladies, a section of the scroll.

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj171/Azjahh/Art%20Museum/GuKaizhipart2.jpg

Admonitions of the Instructress to the Palace Ladies

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj171/Azjahh/Art%20Museum/Histoire_de_femme_Gu_Kai_Zhi.jpg

Nymph of the Luo River (section)

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj171/Azjahh/Art%20Museum/GuKaizhiGoddess_of_luo_shui_section.jpg

Nymph of the Luo River

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj171/Azjahh/Art%20Museum/GuKaizhiGoddess_of_luo_shui.jpg


(All text is taken from Wikipedia)