Chapter 1644: Chapter 1644
The Prince of Ning looked at Gu Yan, finally sighed, and did not continue, "Forget it, since you are unwilling, Brother Gu, I won’t force you."
Gu Yan turned back to the Prince of Ning, clasped his fists, and expressed his gratitude.
"Thank you, Prince, for your understanding." As Gu Yan and the Prince talked, Su Yunjin became increasingly confused and couldn’t help but want to ask some questions. But at this moment, she heard the painter respectfully say to the Prince, "Your Highness, I have finished a piece."
"Finished painting?" Su Yunjin immediately turned her gaze to the painting, and sure enough, the Little Tiangua was completely painted. The painter’s skills were impressive—the depicted Tiangua’s appearance and expression were remarkably lifelike. The Prince of Ning glanced at it and nodded in satisfaction, "Not bad, not bad, the renowned painter Wen’s skills are indeed superb; I am truly impressed." Wen Muyan was a disciple of the painter Cu Xian, whose painting skills were exceptional in Donglin. It’s said that under Cu Xian’s brush, whether it be birds, insects, fish, or humans, all come to life, almost like real beings. Cu Xian once painted a picture of a hundred flowers which even attracted butterflies and bees, demonstrating the realism of his artwork. Google seaʀᴄh n0velfire.net
Although Cu Xian was renowned, he never lightly agreed to paint for others, let alone teach apprentices. Just when everyone thought Cu Xian’s skills might be lost, there was unexpected news that Cu Xian had taken in a disciple. Cu Xian’s sole successor was none other than the painter Wen Muyan brought by the Prince of Ning.
Wen Muyan’s character resembled his master’s; he never agreed to paint easily, even if offered substantial rewards. People say Wen Muyan’s artwork is extremely hard to acquire. The Princess and Prince Rui once accidentally saved Wen Muyan’s life; to repay their kindness, Wen Muyan agreed to come with the Prince of Ning to paint the Little Tiangua.
The Prince of Ning had long heard of Wen Muyan’s reputation and wished to see his artistry himself by bringing him to the Gu Family.
Praising those involved, the Prince of Ning smiled and continued, "Painter Wen, the Princess desires a few more portraits of the future Princely Heir; we trouble you to paint a few more for us."
Wen Muyan did not speak, slightly nodding before continuing his work.
Su Yunjin quietly approached Gu Yan’s ear to ask softly.
"Husband, how is Painter Wen’s work?" Despite Wen Muyan’s reputation, Su Yunjin had never heard of him. She didn’t know Wen Muyan was the best painter in Donglin at present. Gu Yan had heard of Wen Muyan while studying at the academy, but he had only heard the name and not seen Wen Muyan in person.
Gu Yan understood painting; just now, Wen Muyan’s seemingly simple strokes were very difficult—impossible to achieve without ten to eight years of skill. Yet Wen Muyan sketched it effortlessly, indicating his exceptional talent. Asked by his little wife, Gu Yan rarely used a tone of admiration to reply, "Yun daughter, this painter’s work is quite impressive."
"And how do you compare to him?" Su Yunjin playfully blinked at Gu Yan.
She was curious to hear what Gu Yan would say.
Su Yunjin didn’t understand painting and could only judge based on appearance; in her view, Gu Yan’s paintings and this painter’s seemed not much different.
Unexpectedly, Gu Yan whispered next to her, "Yun daughter, he surpasses me." Gu Yan’s calm words made Su Yunjin’s eyes widen instantly.
Looking at Gu Yan with some disbelief, Su Yunjin cautiously confirmed, "Husband, you say he is better than you?" Could it be? In Su Yunjin’s view, Gu Yan’s paintings and those of this painter seemed to have little difference. Was she mistaken?