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

Tosa Mitsunobu

Created:
Movement:
unknown
None
key Notes:
Nature and Elegance.
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
24.2 cm x W. 17.9 cm (9 1/2 x 7 1/16 in.)
medium:
Ink and color on paper
Difficulty:
Master
New game
story of the work:

"Beneath the Oak (Shiigamoto), Illustration to Chapter 46 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" is a significant work by Tosa Mitsunobu, created during the Muromachi period in Japan, which illustrates a pivotal moment in the classic literary text attributed to Murasaki Shikibu. This painting exemplifies the Tosa school's distinctive style, characterized by its intricate detail and vibrant colors, and reflects the cultural importance of the "Tale of Genji" as a foundational work of Japanese literature and art.

Description of the work:

"Beneath the Oak (Shiigamoto), Illustration to Chapter 46 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" by Tosa Mitsunobu is characterized by its intricate use of color and delicate line work, typical of the Yamato-e style, which emphasizes narrative and emotional depth. The composition features a serene landscape with a prominent oak tree, under which figures engage in contemplative interaction, reflecting the themes of nature and human experience central to the Tale of Genji.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Harvard Art Museum

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it. We have put a ton of effort into collating and organizing all of this.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Beneath the Oak (Shiigamoto), Illustration to Chapter 46 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)