The Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), established by Kublai Khan, a Mongol ruler, marked the first time China came under foreign rule. 

During this period, art academies that had existed since the Five Dynasties and Song Dynasty in the 10th century were abolished. Most painters, except for a few specialized court painters, returned to their hometowns, where painting became a means of self-entertainment and emotional expression. As a result, literati painting emerged as the mainstream, emphasizing personal expression, inner beauty, and the fusion of poetry, calligraphy, and painting.

In contrast to the pursuit of physical likeness seen in the Southern Song Dynasty, Yuan Dynasty painters’ focus shifted from replicating forms to capturing inner spirit, emotions, and the subjective feelings and tastes of the artists. Brushwork became simpler and more effortless, using just ink and water. Calligraphy and poetry were seamlessly incorporated into the paintings, forming a harmonious trio of artistic expression.

This new movement had a significant influence on the painting style in the ensuing Ming and Qing dynasties, with many masters in this period being revered by future generations, including luminaries like Zhao Mengfu and the Four Masters of the Yuan Dynasty (Huang Gongwang, Wu Zhen, Ni Zan, and Wang Meng).

During this period, figure painting saw a decline in prominence, while landscape painting continued to flourish. In Flower and Bird painting, subjects such as withered trees, bamboo, stones, plums, and orchards gained popularity.