东西问·马年说马丨唐培勇：徐悲鸿如何绘就“马上乾坤”？

Core Viewpoint - Xu Beihong's unique artistic style, particularly in horse painting, combines Western anatomical and perspective techniques with traditional Chinese ink painting, creating a distinctive aesthetic known as "Horse and Universe" [3][4]. Group 1: Importance of Horses in Art - Horses have been a significant subject in both Eastern and Western art due to their historical relationship with humans as tools for military, transportation, and emotional companionship [4]. - The dynamic beauty of horses, characterized by strength, speed, and elegance, makes them suitable for artistic expression, embodying various cultural and artistic meanings across civilizations [4]. Group 2: Historical Context of Horse Painting - The depiction of horses dates back over 10,000 years, with notable examples in ancient cave paintings and sculptures from various cultures, including the Assyrian reliefs and Roman equestrian statues [5]. - In China, the representation of horses can be traced back to oracle bones and bronze artifacts, with famous artists like Gu Kaizhi and Zhao Mengfu contributing to the tradition of horse painting [6]. Group 3: Xu Beihong's Artistic Journey - Xu Beihong's passion for painting horses was influenced by his father, a well-known artist, which led him to develop a keen interest in animal painting, particularly horses [8]. - His early works emphasized realistic representation through meticulous observation, earning him recognition for his ability to capture the essence of horses [10]. Group 4: Evolution of Xu Beihong's Style - After studying in Europe, Xu Beihong's horse paintings evolved to incorporate a blend of Western realism and Chinese expressive techniques, emphasizing both form and brushwork [12]. - His works during the Anti-Japanese War reflected a spirit of resilience and patriotism, using horses as symbols of strength and determination [10]. Group 5: Legacy and Cultural Significance - Xu Beihong's horse paintings, such as "Galloping Horses," exemplify a fusion of Eastern and Western artistic elements, showcasing a powerful representation of movement and vitality [14]. - The "Galloping Horse Spirit" depicted in his works resonates with contemporary Chinese values of perseverance and progress, establishing a timeless connection between past and present [14].