Chinese oil painting, while having relatively recent roots compared to traditional Chinese art forms like ink painting, has developed into a unique and influential genre in its own right. Its history can be divided into several key stages, influenced by both internal cultural developments and external interactions with Western art.

1. Early Introduction (Late Qing Dynasty, 19th Century)
   The introduction of oil painting to China dates back to the late 19th century during the Qing Dynasty. This period marked the beginning of cultural exchange between China and the West. Christian missionaries, primarily from Europe, played a pivotal role in introducing oil painting techniques to Chinese artists. At first, oil painting was largely seen as a tool for religious and portraiture purposes, with many early Chinese oil paintings featuring Western-style religious themes and figures.
2. The Republican Era (1911–1949)
   During the early 20th century, oil painting began to gain recognition in China as Western art schools and ideas were introduced through increased contact with the outside world. The 1911 revolution and the fall of the Qing Dynasty led to a greater openness to Western culture, which influenced the arts significantly. Many Chinese artists traveled abroad or studied Western painting techniques, and oil painting began to blend with Chinese cultural traditions. Artists like Xu Beihong, who studied in Paris, played a significant role in adapting Western techniques, such as the use of oil paints, while still maintaining Chinese themes, such as traditional subjects like horses and landscapes. This era marked a fusion of Eastern and Western artistic styles.
3. The Communist Era and Socialist Realism (1949–1976)
   Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the government heavily promoted Socialist Realism as the dominant style for visual arts. This period saw the rise of oil painting as a tool for political propaganda and state-led artistic expression. The government encouraged artists to create works that reflected the ideals of the Communist Party, focusing on themes of revolution, labor, and the working class. Artists like Li Keran and Dong Xiwen produced large-scale oil paintings that celebrated the achievements of socialism, portraying heroic workers, soldiers, and peasants in highly stylized, idealized forms.
4. Post-Reform and Contemporary Developments (1976–Present)
   After the Cultural Revolution, China's art scene experienced significant changes. The 1980s and 1990s saw a period of experimentation and diversification as Chinese artists became more open to global influences and began exploring new media, techniques, and themes. Oil painting began to evolve into a medium for individual expression, with artists exploring personal and societal issues in ways that deviated from traditional subjects.

Contemporary Chinese oil painting now encompasses a wide range of styles, from highly realistic to abstract and conceptual works. Artists like Zeng Fanzhi, who is known for his "Mask Series," and Liu Xiaodong, who focuses on contemporary social issues, are prominent figures in the modern Chinese oil painting scene. Additionally, Chinese artists have embraced international recognition, participating in major exhibitions and auctions globally.

The development of Chinese oil painting continues to be influenced by both global art trends and the unique cultural landscape of China, resulting in a vibrant and evolving tradition that blends Eastern philosophies with Western techniques. Today, Chinese oil painting plays a significant role in both national and international art markets, reflecting the dynamic changes in Chinese society and culture.