Spring Shoots I (Wakana: jō), Illustration to Chapter 34 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)

Tosa Mitsunobu

Created:

Movement:

unknown

None

key Notes:

"Elegant Nature" and "Literary Illustration"

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:

"Spring Shoots I (Wakana: jō), Illustration to Chapter 34 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 revival of traditional Japanese painting techniques and themes. This painting illustrates a pivotal moment in the narrative of the "Tale of Genji," reflecting the cultural and aesthetic values of the Heian period while also influencing subsequent generations of Japanese art through its intricate detail and emotive expression.

Description of the work:

"Spring Shoots I (Wakana: jō), Illustration to Chapter 34 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" by Tosa Mitsunobu features a delicate composition characterized by its intricate line work and vibrant color palette, typical of the Yamato-e style. The painting depicts a serene landscape with lush spring foliage and elegantly rendered figures, embodying the aesthetic principles of harmony and nature prevalent in Edo-period Japanese art.

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.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.