Gaze upon masterpieces at portraiture exhibition

Shenzheners are having a rare opportunity to admire iconic Western figure and portrait paintings, such as Giorgio de Chirico’s “Hector and Andromache,” Marc Chagall’s “The Circus,” and René Magritte’s “Abstract Idea,” at a free exhibition at Nanshan Museum.

The “Vision and Gaze — Western Figure and Portrait Paintings From Tokyo Fuji Art Museum,” featuring exhibits on loan from the Tokyo Fuji Art Museum in Japan, showcases 56 masterpieces by renowned artists, such as Anthony van Dyck, Joshua Reynolds, Thomas Gainsborough, Jean-François Millet and Andy Warhol.

Visitors observe paintings and take photos at the “Vision and Gaze” exhibition at Nanshan Museum. Photos by Cao Zhen

As visitors navigate through the exhibition, they will witness the evolution of artistic expression from the 16th to the 20th century and feel the enduring impact of Western figure and portrait paintings.

At the exhibition, many visitors were enthralled by paintings depicting historical figures or those with meticulous representation, from Napoleon’s regal poise in “Bonaparte Crossing the Great St. Bernard” to portraits of elegant women and tender children.

“Bonaparte Crossing the Great St. Bernard” (1805) by Workshop of Jacques-Louis David.

The artists captured human forms and expressions with astonishing detail, allowing viewers to connect deeply with the figures in the paintings. They also demonstrated exceptional technical skill in rendering light, shadow, texture and perspective. Their command of techniques contributed to the visual allure of these paintings.

The exhibition is presented in four sections. The “Divinity” section unfolds an array of mesmerizing paintings depicting figures from Greek and Roman mythology, alongside poignant Christian stories. In the “Majesty” section, portraits of European royals and nobility, including the iconic Napoleon and Marie Antoinette, transport viewers through time and space.

Portrait of Napoleon I” and “Portrait of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France.” Both were created in the 19th century.

The “Women” section intricately weaves a vivid tapestry of feminine imagery, inviting viewers to explore the nuanced portrayals of elegant women of a bygone age. The “Diversity” section serves as a thought-provoking lens through which viewers can reexamine the profound relationship between art and society in paintings with diverse subjects.

In the “Diversity” section, viewers will encounter Magritte’s immediately recognizable green apple in his “Abstract Idea” painting which evokes a surreal sense mixed with astonishment. Other highlighted items include Chirico’s surrealist and partially cubist “Hector and Andromache,” Chagall’s “The Circus” with mysterious beauty, and Millet’s “The Sower,” which emphasizes the dignity, even heroism, of rural labor in France in the 19th century.

Jean-François Millet’s “The Sower” (1851).

The exhibition offers an unparalleled opportunity for art enthusiasts and history aficionados to indulge in an exploration of Western art’s profound and enchanting expressions as preserved through the ages. Moreover, it goes beyond static portraits and visitors can enjoy live concerts at 6 p.m., Dec. 2 and 9.

René Magritte’s “Abstract Idea” (1966).

Dates: Until Feb. 28, 2024

Venue: Nanshan Museum (南山博物馆)

Metro: Line 1 or 12 to Taoyuan Station (桃园站), Exit B