Uragami Gyokudō 浦上玉堂

Uragami Gyokudō (1745–1820) was a Japanese painter, calligrapher, and musician renowned for his contributions to the Nanga or Bunjinga art movement, which was inspired by Chinese literati painting. Born in the Bizen Province, Gyokudō initially served as a samurai and government official before dedicating himself fully to the arts. His work is characterized by expressive brushwork and a deep engagement with nature, reflecting the ideals of scholarly leisure and artistic freedom. Gyokudō's impact on Japanese art is significant, as he helped to popularize the Nanga style, blending traditional Chinese influences with a distinctly Japanese sensibility. His legacy is preserved in his paintings and musical compositions, which continue to be celebrated for their aesthetic and cultural significance.