In 1945, ZHANG Da-qian resided at Zhaojue Temple in Chengdu, during which he created the present work, Boating on the River. Zhaojue Temple has been a revered Buddhist site since the Tang dynasty. After returning from Dunhuang, ZHANG rented the left wing of the Mahavira Hall as his studio. During his stay, he also painted his monumental work Lotus in Ink, currently in the collection of the National Museum of History, Taipei.

According to the inscription on this piece, ZHANG Da-qian viewed an original work by Wen Zhengming at Zhaojue Temple. Wen Zhengming, a leading literati figure in the mid-Ming dynasty, was known for his refined and elegant painting style. His son Wen Jia and Wen Peng gained considerable reputation in the art world. His great-grandson, Wen Zhenheng was also regarded as an important connoisseur in the late Ming period. Wen Zhenheng’s son served as an abbot of Zhaojue Temple, which may explain how Wen Zhengming’s work was kept there. As an avid connoisseur of classical paintings, ZHANG Da-qian must have taken great delight in appreciating such a rare original by Wen Zhengming.

Created prior to his departure from mainland China in 1949, Boating on the River showcases ZHANG Da-qian’s sophisticated command of both technique and art historical knowledge. The inscription further reveals ZHANG’s meticulous attention to artistic materials: the paper and ink used were specially made. Enriched by its historical context and layered with art historical references, this painting holds significant meaning and value for collection.