White Egret
May one see it?
Not on view at present
Where is “White Egret” now? Collection: Minneapolis Institute of Art, Minneapolis. Not on view at present. Checked September 29, 2026.
Minneapolis, United States
It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.
- Checked
- In this state since
- Source
- The museum
About the painting
This hanging scroll depicts a single egret in shallow water among the reeds, the landscape shrouded in heavy mist. Feeling chilly, the water bird sinks its head into its chest and raises one leg—yet its eyes remain open, ever watchful.
Liang Kai was one of the leading academic masters near the end of the Southern Song dynasty (1127–1279). His compositions and subject matter are simple yet animated by spiritual intensity, reflecting the Chan Buddhist principles that value intuition and introspection over doctrine and ritual as paths to enlightenment. Their sketch-like qualities suggest spontaneity, individuality, and immediacy.
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Particulars
- Accession number
- 2015.11
In the catalog
Sources
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Image: Minneapolis Institute of Art — public domain
