The second most important art form in China after calligraphy is painting. Most of the earliest surviving Chinese paintings date from the Song dynasty, which is seen as one of the golden eras of the tradition. A number of famous artists and art theorists, such as Su Dongpo (pseudonym of Su Shi), lived during this period, and the important art form of landscape painting developed. Many famous painters are recorded in the extensive literature about art from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Today the tradition of watercolor painting on silk or paper is practiced widely throughout China.
Chinese artisans have also made major achievements in forms such as jade carving, lacquerwork, textiles, and ceramics. Many art forms, such as silk weaving and porcelain work, were invented in China and only later spread to other parts of the world. China's villages developed important folk art traditions, which were often very different from the art produced for the wealthy in the cities.
China's imperial rulers were major patrons of the arts. After 1949, many artists became employees of the state, paid to produce work glorifying the People's Republic and the Chinese Communist Party. See also Chinese Art and Architecture.
The earliest surviving Chinese musical instruments include bronze bells dating from the Shang and Western Zhou dynasties. In imperial China, the ability to play and appreciate music was a central aspect of high social status. Alongside the music of the educated elite, a rich tradition of folk music developed in China's towns and villages. Chinese folk music varies considerably from region to region. Many urban centers now have both Chinese and Western style musical groups, including symphony orchestras and rock bands. See also Chinese Music.
Men performed vigorous dances with swords, and it was fashionable to watch dances performed by professional dancers imported from other parts of Asia.
