Connotation Evolution of ZHANG Daqian’s Paintings Concerning Roads to Sichuan

Roads to Sichuan have always been the subject in literati’s paintings. As a renowned modern Chinese painter, ZHANG Daqian created many fine works depicting the landscapes concerning roads to Sichuan. In his early works, ZHANG inherited the excellent traditions of painting related to these roads. Many times, he portrayed the majestic mountains and perilous paths unique to these roads. Through his numerous returns to and departures from Sichuan, this renowned modern Chinese painter integrated his rich cultural sentiments of Bashu (Chongqing is shortened as ba, and it is adjacent to Shu, Sichuan) into his paintings of these roads. Therefore, compared to his earlier works, a more humanistic and nostalgic sentiments were imbued in his pieces.