Sung Dynasty

Considered the third Chinese golden age, this complex dynasty was divided almost evenly into Northern (960 - 1126) and Southern (1127 - 1279) halves. The former was a tranquil time characterized by philosophical and artistic development, political centralization, and economic growth. The latter, however, was quite the opposite; brutal invaders drove the Chinese from their northern territory, forcing them to migrate south and establish a new capital city. The psychological effects of this devastating upheaval are apparent in Sung paintings; misty, ethereal landscapes reflect conflicting emotions of regret, acceptance, and longing. The variety and quality of ceramics increased dramatically, and wooden sculpture was convincingly realistic.