The Yuan Dynasty ruled China from 1279 to 1368 following the Mongol conquest. During this period, artistic styles became more individualistic and archaic as Chinese scholars retreated from public life under Mongol rule. Notable Yuan artists included Zhao Mengfu, who painted in a style close to ancient masters, and the Four Masters - Huang Gongwang, Ni Zan, Wang Meng, and Wu Zhen - who were renowned landscape painters.