Returned to lender The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Couplet
Calligrapher Deng Shiru Chinese
Not on view
清 鄧石如 隷書 對聯 絹本
This work, written just a year before Deng Shiru’s death, encapsulates the appeal of his mature clerical script, which is typified by squat characters written in unwavering lines. Pairs of hanging scrolls like these—known as couplets (duilian)—were often hung in reception halls for special occasions. The sentiment of the poem (translated and transcribed below) is perfect for a festive celebration.
Right: The heart is a good field—plow it for a hundred
generations, and it will never be depleted.
Left: Goodness is a perfect treasure—use it for a lifetime,
and some will still remain.
心作良田百世耕之不盡
善為至寶一生用則有餘
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This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.
