plate no. 5490

Xiling Gorge

Fu Baoshi, 1964

oilInk and wash paintinglandscapemountainswaterfallboatlandscapeclouds

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in controlling ink wash techniques and creating depth through layering and varying brushstrokes. It also teaches how to suggest form and texture with minimal detail.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic mountain shapes and the waterfall's position.
step 02
Begin with a very diluted wash of black ink for the sky and distant mountains.
step 03
Layer darker washes to define the mountain forms, using varied brushstrokes to suggest texture.
step 04
Create the waterfall by leaving the paper blank and adding subtle grey washes to define its edges and form.
step 05
Add details to the foreground mountains with darker, bolder strokes.
step 06
Paint the boat and surrounding details with a fine brush, using diluted ink.
step 07
Add small touches of red for accents, such as the figures and seals.
step 08
Allow each layer to dry slightly before adding the next to prevent excessive bleeding.

color palette

primary · black ink · white (paper)

secondary · grey · red

Vary the dilution of black ink with water to create a range of grey tones. Use highly diluted ink for light washes and concentrated ink for dark details.

techniques