Grooms and horses

Zhao Mengfu made the original section for the official Feiqing after withdrawing from service in 1296. Horse and groom could evoke the recognition and proper employment of talent. The scroll combines several family generations and dates of 1296 and 1359.

A long-robed groom holds the rein. Handling the animal provides the visible action associated with recognising ability.

A pale horse appears in profile with a dark mane. A clear contour allows individual features to be examined.

The head turns slightly, with reins hanging below. A small variation of profile preserves a sense of living behaviour.

A vertical inscription appears near the left edge. Text connects the image with particular people and circumstances of exchange.

Large red seals fill the upper right. Later ownership becomes part of the visible record.

Restricted access to government employment gave the horse-and-groom theme social significance. Later participation by Zhao Mengfu’s son and grandson added an actual history of artistic continuity within the family.