Butterflies (Kochō), Illustration to Chapter 24 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)

Butterflies (Kochō), Illustration to Chapter 24 of the Tale of Genji

The painting titled Butterflies (Kochō), Illustration to Chapter 24 of the Tale of Genji is attributed to Tosa Mitsunobu, a prominent Japanese artist known for his contributions to the Tosa school of painting. Created using ink and color on paper, this work exemplifies the refined aesthetic and narrative style characteristic of the Tosa school, which specialized in yamato-e, or traditional Japanese painting. The illustration is part of a larger series depicting scenes from the Tale of Genji, a classic work of Japanese literature written by Murasaki Shikibu in the early 11th century. Tosa Mitsunobu, active during the late 15th and early 16th centuries, played a crucial role in the development of Japanese narrative painting, blending courtly elegance with detailed storytelling. His work on the Tale of Genji series is significant for its meticulous attention to detail and its ability to convey the emotional depth of the literary source. This painting not only reflects the cultural and artistic values of its time but also serves as an important historical document, offering insights into the visual interpretation of one of Japan's most revered literary works.

The painting "Butterflies (Kochō), Illustration to Chapter 24 of the Tale of Genji" by Tosa Mitsunobu is an exquisite example of the Yamato-e style, characterized by its delicate use of ink and color on paper to depict scenes from classical Japanese literature. This artwork illustrates a moment from the "Tale of Genji," capturing the elegance and refinement of the Heian period through its intricate details and composition.