Created:
Movement:
1868
None
key Notes:
"Delicate Brushwork" "Expressive Canine Portrait"
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Dimensions:
10 5/8 x 15 3/8 in. (27 x 39.1 cm)
medium:
Unmounted painting; ink and watercolor on paper
Difficulty:
Expert
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story of the work:

"Pekingese" is a painting attributed to the Hokusai School, created in the 19th century during the Edo period in Japan. The work reflects the influence of ukiyo-e, a genre of woodblock prints and paintings that flourished in this era. The painting features a Pekingese dog, a breed that gained popularity in Japan during the late Edo period, often associated with the imperial court. The Hokusai School, founded by the renowned artist Katsushika Hokusai, is known for its emphasis on natural forms and detailed representation. The specific artist within the Hokusai School who created "Pekingese" remains unknown. The painting exemplifies the cultural exchange between Japan and China, as the Pekingese breed originates from China. The work is characterized by its delicate brushwork and attention to the animal's features, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing the essence of the subject. The painting is part of a broader tradition of animal portraits in Japanese art, which often convey symbolic meanings. The current location of "Pekingese" is not documented in available sources.

Description of the work:

"Pekingese" by the Hokusai School is an unmounted painting executed in ink and watercolor on paper during the 19th century. The composition features a Pekingese dog, characterized by its distinctive long fur and flat face, rendered with meticulous attention to detail. The use of ink creates sharp outlines, while the watercolor adds a soft, delicate quality to the fur, enhancing the animal's texture. The background is minimal, allowing the subject to dominate the visual field. The color palette is subdued, primarily utilizing earthy tones that complement the naturalistic representation of the dog. The overall composition reflects the aesthetic principles of the Hokusai School, emphasizing both realism and the beauty of the subject. The painting exemplifies the tradition of animal portraiture in Japanese art, showcasing the cultural significance of the Pekingese breed during this period.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Pekingese