Eight Horses
Kano Yasunobu
"Eight Horses," created by Kano Yasunobu in the 17th century, is a significant work within the Kano school of painting, renowned for its dynamic representation of horses, which symbolize strength and vitality in Japanese culture. The painting exemplifies the fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics with the influence of Chinese painting techniques, reflecting the socio-political context of the Edo period and the patronage of the ruling samurai class.
"Eight Horses," attributed to Kano Yasunobu, is a large-scale ink painting that depicts a dynamic composition of eight horses in various poses, showcasing their muscular forms and flowing manes. The work exemplifies the Kano school's emphasis on naturalism and movement, utilizing bold brushstrokes and a limited color palette to convey the vitality and grace of the animals within a harmonious landscape setting.