Tang Yin

Lore & Background

Tang Yin was born into a low-level merchant family in Suzhou, the son of a restaurant operator. He studied diligently in his youth, paying little attention to material gains, and his genius drew him into wealthy and talented social circles. Wen Zhengming became his friend, and Wen's father, Wen Lin, acted as a patron. All parties were jailed, and Tang returned to Suzhou in disgrace, ending his hopes for a civil service career.

Reader's Guide

Tang's paintings, especially of people, incorporated elements from Pre-Tang to Song dynasty art, and he also perfected semi-cursive script. His poems dealt with themes of envy, venality, cupidity, and tragic unfulfillment, often ending on a note of regret. Tang's life and work remain the subject of exhibitions, including a major one at the National Palace Museum, Taipei.

Did You Know?

• He is one of the 'Four Masters of Ming dynasty' along with Shen Zhou, Wen Zhengming, and Qiu Ying.
• His poem 'A Short Verse on Bamboo' includes the lines 'Ten stalks, still green in winter, cast profuse shadows.'