Pictures of the Sage's Traces

Qing dynasty (1644�1911), Kangxi period (1662�1722), dated and engraved 1682

Illustrated by Chen Yin; eulogies and colophon composed by Lin Youfang; engraved by Zhu Bi

Album of 72 leaves (36 double leaves), ink rubbed on paper; overall dimensions: 35.2 x 32.8 cm; each double leaf: approx. 30.8 x 61.4 cm

Date of rubbing not given, Qing dynasty (1644�1911)

Inventory number: Huaxiang 884

Since the earliest version of the Sheng ji tu (Pictures of the Sage's Traces) was commissioned in 1444 by Zhang Kai (1398�1460), there have been many recensions in terms of media (stone engravings, prints, paintings, and so forth), number of episodes (ranging between 29 and 112 pictures), and formats (principally handscrolls or albums).� Incised-stone versions, from which infinite sets of ink rubbings could be made, were the preferred mode.� Such morally instructive illustrations, in contrast to the more familiar iconic portraits of Confucius, were meant to help ordinary people visualize and understand his teachings.

The version of 1682 contains 36 pictures drawn by Chen Yin, inscribed by Lin Youfang, and engraved by Zhu Bi.� The tablets were kept at the seat of Qingpu County in Songjiang Prefecture.� All of Chen Yin's oblong compositions contain figures, but the scenes vary considerably among outdoor settings, interior architectural spaces, or a combination of both.� In almost every picture a sense of dynamic asymmetry prevails, with the text block in the corners and strong geometric lines used to delineate architectural elements or interior furnishings.