Zhang Lu (painter)

He attained great success as a professional painter but lived very simply, almost as a hermit.

[3] He began his study of painting by emulating the leading court painter, Wang E, but quickly turned from the academy to other models and masters.

[3] His courtesy name was Tianchi (天馳) and his pseudonym was Pingshan (平山).

He painted landscapes and human figures in a free and uninhibited style.

According to many legends he also contributed to major religions that are still present in modern day China.

Zhang Lu, Laozi Riding an Ox 畫老子騎牛. Light ink and color on paper. National Palace Museum