Falling Flowers (Hanachirusato), Illustration to Chapter 11 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)
Tosa Mitsunobu
"Falling Flowers (Hanachirusato), Illustration to Chapter 11 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" is a significant work by Tosa Mitsunobu, created in the late 16th century, which exemplifies the Tosa school’s distinctive style that merges traditional Japanese aesthetics with narrative depth. This painting illustrates the themes of transience and beauty found in the classic literary work "The Tale of Genji," reflecting the cultural and artistic values of the Heian period while influencing subsequent interpretations of the text in visual art.
"Falling Flowers (Hanachirusato), Illustration to Chapter 11 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" by Tosa Mitsunobu is characterized by its delicate use of color and intricate detailing, typical of the Yamato-e style. The composition features a serene landscape adorned with cherry blossoms, which are rendered with a soft, flowing quality, emphasizing the ephemeral beauty central to the narrative of the Tale of Genji.