군자와 고객: 응수화(應酬畵)의 관점에서 본 정섭(鄭燮)의 그림과 화제(畵題)

Abstract

This article examines artworks by Zheng Xie in 18th century, in Yangzhou. During this time, Zheng’s artworks were viewed as a commodity, a significant portion of which were produced in response to demands from patrons. Through a careful analysis of Zheng’s works, focusing on pictures and literary sentences, one discovers that Zheng’s pieces have subtle nuances, designed to fit the specific needs of his patrons. Indeed, Zheng’s works were famous during this time, and were highly demanded by a diverse group of professionals, such as salt merchants, bureaucrats, literati, monks, and others. His patrons were eager to experience classic literati culture, which Zheng delivered through his works. Zheng’s success was no accident; it is credited to his talents of writing, calligraphy, and painting. Specifically, Zheng used the form of Zihua-Ziti (self-painting and self-writing), drew such motifs as bamboo, orchids, and rocks, and wrote Huati (writing on painting) which expresses the pride of being a literatus, by emphasizing Junzi (gentleman) ideals. The collectors, who were eager to enjoy classical literati culture, were able to feel glorified owing to the customized works in which they were praised to their heart’s content. At the same time, owing to the gentlemanly image in the Huati, they could feel as if they were literary men, detached and free from the secular world. In addition, as the result of Zheng’s strategic promotion of his works, they were able to enjoy the pleasure of having literary works of a literati, who possessed a wonderful talent and academic intelligence. This is the way in which Zheng’s artworks existed as commodities.