Introduction
Chinese paintings are not simply framed like Western artworks. The way a painting is mounted determines how it is displayed, stored, and even how long it lasts. In this guide, we explain the five most common mounting formats, from the unmounted painting core to the fully framed piece.
1. The Painting Core (画心)
Before any mounting is done, the painting itself is called the huaxin, or painting core. This is the raw artwork on paper or silk — the brushwork, the inscription, and the seal marks. It is not yet ready for display and needs to be mounted to protect it and give it structure.
2. Mirror Heart (镜心)
After the painting core is backed with layers of paper and bordered with silk brocade, it becomes a jingxin, or mirror heart. At this stage, the painting is flat, stable, and ready to be framed behind glass. This is a popular choice for modern interiors, as it allows the artwork to be displayed in a standard frame without the depth required by a scroll.
3. Vertical Scroll (立轴/挂轴)
This is the classic hanging scroll. The mounted painting is attached to wooden rods at the top and bottom, allowing it to be hung on a wall and rolled up for storage. Vertical scrolls are typically displayed in living rooms, studies, or tea rooms, and are one of the most recognized forms of Chinese painting presentation.
4. Handscroll (手卷/长卷)
A handscroll is a long horizontal format, often several meters in length. It is not hung on a wall; instead, it is unrolled slowly from right to left on a table, viewed section by section, and then rolled back up. Handscrolls are intimate objects, meant to be appreciated in private, and often contain narrative scenes or continuous landscapes.
5. Framed (框)
For buyers who prefer a more contemporary look, a painting can be mounted as a mirror heart and then placed in a frame. This offers the protection of glass and a modern presentation style, while still preserving the traditional silk borders and mounting techniques.
Closing
Each mounting style serves a different purpose — some are meant for wall display, others for quiet appreciation. Understanding these formats helps you choose the right piece for your space. If you are looking for a hand-mounted scroll or a framed piece, you can browse our collection here.