Shibata Zeshin 柴田是真

Shibata Zeshin (1807–1891) was a Japanese artist renowned for his contributions to the Edo and Meiji periods, particularly within the Rinpa and ukiyo-e movements. Born in Edo, now Tokyo, Zeshin was a master of lacquerware, painting, and printmaking, and he is celebrated for his innovative techniques and integration of traditional Japanese aesthetics with Western influences. He studied under the lacquer artist Koma Kansai II and the painter Suzuki Nanrei, which significantly shaped his artistic development. Zeshin's work was pivotal in the transition of Japanese art during the Meiji Restoration, as he adeptly blended classical styles with modern sensibilities. His participation in international exhibitions, such as the Vienna World's Fair in 1873, helped to elevate the global appreciation of Japanese art. Zeshin's legacy endures through his unique approach to materials and his ability to adapt traditional art forms to the changing cultural landscape of Japan.