Ōtagaki Rengetsu

Ōtagaki Rengetsu was a Japanese artist born in 1791 and passed away in 1875. Rengetsu was a prominent figure in the Edo period, known for her contributions to the art of pottery, calligraphy, and poetry, particularly within the context of the Nanga or literati movement. Her life was marked by personal tragedy, including the loss of her children and two husbands, which led her to become a Buddhist nun, a decision that deeply influenced her artistic output. Rengetsu's work is celebrated for its delicate integration of poetry and ceramics, often featuring her own waka poems inscribed on her pottery. Her unique style and the emotive quality of her work have left a lasting impact on Japanese art, earning her a revered place in the cultural history of Japan.