shan shui (山水)

Shan shui (山水), meaning "mountain and water," is a traditional Chinese art form emphasizing natural landscapes. It depicts mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and forests, highlighting harmony between nature's elements. The style often employs ink and brush techniques to evoke atmosphere, mood, and spiritual symbolism rather than strict realism. Shan shui paintings reflect Daoist and Confucian philosophies, emphasizing balance, flow, and the interconnectedness of all things. While primarily a visual art form, shan shui also inspires poetry and philosophy, celebrating nature’s beauty and fostering a sense of contemplation and harmony with the natural world.