Final answer:
The function of the oil painting 'Chairman Mao en Route to Anyuan' is to serve as communist propaganda. It uses regulated artistic techniques to idolize Mao Zedong in line with the cultural and political narratives of the time, reinforcing his status as a revered figure during China's Cultural Revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The oil painting Chairman Mao en Route to Anyuan primarily functions as communist propaganda. It embodies the ideals of the communist movement by depicting Mao Zedong as a hero of the people, guiding and inspiring them. The influence of both Soviet and American propaganda techniques can be seen in Chinese art during this period.
Chinese propaganda art often depicted Mao in a style reminiscent of Soviet socialist realism, with regulation on how his image was portrayed, including color usage and brushwork, intended to reinforce Mao's cult of personality.
Furthermore, during the Cultural Revolution, the Chinese propaganda apparatus established distinct guidelines for painting portraits of Mao Zedong to reflect not only artistic styles but also cultural predispositions.
Certain visual elements, such as Mao's face being illuminated as if he were the primary source of light, were used to anchor the association of Mao with slogans like “Mao is the sun in our hearts.” Portrayals often showed Mao surrounded by loyal followers holding the Little Red Book of his sayings, further solidifying his image as the leader of the revolutionary movement.