Dao of Design
... search artist of famous Chinese painting of traveler with wayfarer's house on path to mountain
Fan Kuan
The Chinese artist most renowned for a painting depicting travelers on a path in mountainous terrain is Fan Kuan, a painter from the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1279). His masterpiece, Travelers Among Mountains and Streams, is a monumental hanging scroll painted in ink and light color on silk, measuring 84 by 41.5 inches. The work features a central mountain dominating the composition, a mule train traversing a path in the right foreground, a cascading waterfall, and a distant temple complex, all rendered with meticulous detail and a dynamic use of perspective. Fan Kuan's signature is hidden among the foliage to the right of the mule train, symbolizing the insignificance of humans in the face of nature's grandeur. This painting, housed in the National Palace Museum in Taipei, is considered a quintessential example of Northern Song monumental landscape painting and reflects Daoist and Neo-Confucian ideals of harmony and the eternal nature of the universe.
... according to principles of Feng Shui, where would a reproduction of the iconic painting be displayed to best effect
According to Feng Shui principles, a reproduction of Fan Kuan's Travelers Among Mountains and Streams should be displayed in the north sector of a home or office to enhance career and life path. The mountain imagery represents stability and support (Earth element), while the flowing water symbolizes the flow of wealth and opportunity (Water element). Placing it in the north (governed by Water) activates these energies effectively. It can also be suitable for the west or northwest to promote helpful people and travel, or the southwest for relationships, depending on the specific Bagua layout and desired intention. Avoid placing it in bedrooms or areas dominated by fire elements, as water can disrupt rest and passion.
... sound principles and true "water can disrupt rest and passion" having myself placed water fountain fixture in bedroom without consideration of proper Feng Shui precepts
Yes, the principle holds true, as you discovered. In Feng Shui, water elements like fountains are generally discouraged in bedrooms because they introduce active, flowing energy (yang) into a space meant for quiet, restful energy (yin). The sound and movement of water can subconsciously create restlessness, disrupt sleep, and over time, may contribute to feelings of anxiety or worry. This aligns with traditional Feng Shui teachings that prioritize stillness and stability in the bedroom for optimal health and well-being. Your experience reflects this common guideline.
... summary recalls tangential question concerning non-working (dry) fountains in Feng Shui legend and precept
In Feng Shui, a non-working or dry fountain is considered detrimental as it symbolizes stagnant or blocked energy (chi), potentially leading to financial obstacles or missed opportunities. Water features must have moving, clean water to attract positive chi, abundance, and flow. A dry fountain contradicts this principle, representing a lack of vitality and prosperity. Legends and modern practice emphasize that broken pumps, leaks, or neglected maintenance weaken the fountain’s power, turning a potential cure into a liability. To be effective, a fountain must be fully functional and well-maintained.
... conjectured if a house is offered for sale and has a non-working fountain what measures may be taken to easily and cost-effectively heal the sore spot according to Feng Shui principles
To heal a non-working fountain in a house for sale according to Feng Shui, the most effective and cost-efficient measure is to repair or replace the pump so the water flows again, restoring positive chi. If repair isn't feasible, remove the fountain entirely to eliminate stagnant energy. As a temporary fix, thoroughly clean the basin and fill it with fresh, clean water and a few coins to symbolize wealth and activate positive energy, even without flow. Ensure the fountain is in a favorable location (e.g., north, southeast) and pointed inward, not toward exits.