The Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting

The Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting is a classical Chinese art guide from the 17th century that teaches traditional painting techniques, especially nature scenes. It emphasizes observation, brushwork, and composition, providing practical instructions and examples for artists to improve their skills. The manual blends artistic principles with philosophical ideas, promoting disciplined practice and the importance of capturing the spirit or essence of the subject. It remains a foundational resource for understanding classical Chinese painting methods and aesthetics, bridging technical instruction with cultural and artistic values.