07 Yue Gu

The painting presents a stylized scene dominated by bold colors and simplified forms. A traditional East Asian architectural structure, likely a pavilion or temple roof, occupies the left portion of the composition. Its tiered design is rendered in shades of red and orange, with yellow accents highlighting its edges. The building’s form appears somewhat flattened, lacking depth and perspective.
In the foreground, two figures are depicted riding what seems to be a palanquin or enclosed carriage. Their faces possess an elongated quality, with large eyes and small mouths, characteristic of certain East Asian artistic conventions. They wear elaborate headdresses and traditional garments in shades of purple and black, suggesting a position of status or privilege. The carriage itself is constructed from a grid-like pattern of yellow and green blocks, further emphasizing the painting’s overall flatness.
The background consists primarily of a large red plane that diagonally cuts across the canvas, creating a sense of dynamism and visual tension. Above this red area, a blue sky is visible, rendered with broad brushstrokes suggesting movement or atmospheric perspective.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of tradition versus modernity, or perhaps public display versus private experience. The stylized figures and architectural elements evoke a sense of cultural heritage, while the flattened perspective and bold color palette introduce a contemporary sensibility. The red plane could be interpreted as a barrier, separating the viewer from the scene or representing an external force impacting the traditional setting. The overall effect is one of controlled formality combined with a hint of underlying tension or ambiguity.