In "Homecoming" by Xu Tianmin, we are transported to a serene rural landscape as the day approaches its end. The painting masterfully captures the tranquil beauty of this scene. At the heart of the composition, a farmer guides a group of cattle homeward. The long shadows cast by the late afternoon sun and the warm, golden light on the horizon suggest that sunset is imminent.

The central subject of the piece is illuminated through contre-jour, rendering the farmer and the cattle in rich, dark tones that draw the viewer's focus. Against the vast expanse of lush green grass punctuated by shrubs and small trees in the background, this central tableau takes center stage. Above, the sky stretches out in a clear expanse, painted in sandy, light pastel orange with subtle infusions of blue.

Details:
Artist: Xu Tianmin
Title: "Homecoming"
Medium: Oil painting on canvas
Dimensions: 60 x 40 cm (23.62 x 15.75 inches)
Condition Report: Overall good condition
Signature: Located in the lower-left corner

About the artist:
Xu Tianmin (1928.2.8—1998.7), formerly known as Xu Tianmin, is a renowned oil painter and a prominent member of the Chinese Artists Association, where he also served as a director. Born in Tongcheng Town, Tianchang City, Anhui Province, his passion for art blossomed in his early years. In 1941, he embarked on his artistic journey by enrolling in the art class of Huainan Art College. Later, he engaged in public art propaganda work in the liberated areas.

During the early days of the People's Republic of China, he pursued advanced studies at the East China Branch of the Central Academy of Fine Arts, earning his degree in 1955. Xu Tianmin's career was marked by various significant roles, including deputy instructor of the art team of the East China Military Region and Sanye Political Department, panel art editor, and art group leader of "East China Warrior," and deputy leader of the Jiangsu Provincial Art Creation Group, among others.

He contributed significantly to the world of art, creating and publishing numerous oil paintings and pictures, many of which were exhibited in national exhibitions. Some of his notable works, such as "Transplanting Seedlings," "Nanjing Zijin Mountain Observatory," and "A Thousand Mountains and Flowing Springs," received recognition internationally, being exhibited in countries like the Soviet Union, Pakistan, Canada, and Hong Kong. Xu Tianmin also authored several papers discussing various aspects of art, including "Looking at the Exhibition of Lu Sibai's Oil Paintings" and "Historical Paintings Should Deeply Reflect the Quality of History."