Tosa Mitsunobu

Tosa Mitsunobu (c. 1434–1525) was a renowned Japanese painter and the founder of the Tosa school of painting, which became known for its intricate detail and vibrant use of color, specializing in courtly and narrative scenes. Born into a family of artists that had long served the Imperial court, Mitsunobu followed in this tradition, eventually becoming the head of the court painting bureau from 1493 to 1496. His work reflected the refined aesthetic of the court and often depicted historical and literary themes from classical Japanese culture. Mitsunobu's contributions laid the foundation for the continued success of the Tosa school, which influenced Japanese painting for centuries. He is remembered as a pivotal figure in the development of Japanese art, particularly for his role in blending traditional Yamato-e painting styles with evolving courtly tastes.