Beneath the Oak (Shiigamoto), Illustration to Chapter 46 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)

Beneath the Oak (Shiigamoto), Illustration to Chapter 46 of the Tale of Genji

The painting "Beneath the Oak (Shiigamoto)" is an illustration by Tosa Mitsunobu, created using ink and color on paper. This work is part of a series illustrating the "Tale of Genji," a classic of Japanese literature written by Murasaki Shikibu in the early 11th century. Tosa Mitsunobu, active during the late 15th and early 16th centuries, was a prominent figure in the Tosa school, known for its detailed and refined approach to yamato-e, a classical Japanese painting style. The illustration captures the aesthetic sensibilities of the Heian period, emphasizing elegance and emotional depth. Mitsunobu's work is significant for its contribution to the visual interpretation of literary classics, bridging the gap between literature and visual art. His legacy is evident in the continued appreciation and study of the Tosa school's influence on Japanese art.

"Beneath the Oak (Shiigamoto), Illustration to Chapter 46 of the Tale of Genji" by Tosa Mitsunobu is an exquisite example of Japanese yamato-e style, characterized by its delicate use of ink and color on paper to depict scenes from classical literature. The artwork illustrates a poignant moment from the "Tale of Genji," capturing the refined aesthetics and narrative depth of the Heian period.