Tale of the Rat (Nezumi zōshi emaki)

Tosa Mitsunobu

Created:
Movement:
unknown
None
key Notes:
Narrative scroll, Animal allegory.
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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:

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Tale of the Rat (Nezumi zōshi emaki) by Tosa Mitsunobu

The painting titled Tale of the Rat (Nezumi zōshi emaki) is an exemplary work by Tosa Mitsunobu, created using ink and color on paper. Tosa Mitsunobu, active during the late 15th and early 16th centuries, was a pivotal figure in the development of the Tosa school of painting, which specialized in traditional Japanese themes and techniques. This work is significant for its intricate depiction of narrative scenes, a hallmark of the Tosa school, which often illustrated classical literature and folklore. The Nezumi zōshi emaki is notable for its detailed and expressive portrayal of characters, reflecting the artist's mastery in capturing the subtleties of human emotion and storytelling. Mitsunobu's contributions to Japanese art are profound, as he played a crucial role in preserving and advancing the Yamato-e style, characterized by its delicate lines and vibrant colors. This painting not only exemplifies the aesthetic values of its time but also serves as a cultural artifact that offers insights into the narrative art traditions of Japan.

Description of the work:

Tale of the Rat (Nezumi zōshi emaki) by Tosa Mitsunobu

The painting "Tale of the Rat (Nezumi zōshi emaki)" by Tosa Mitsunobu is an emakimono, a traditional Japanese illustrated handscroll, created using ink and color on paper. This work exemplifies the refined and detailed style characteristic of the Tosa school, depicting a narrative involving anthropomorphic rats, and is held in a collection in Japan.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Harvard Art Museum

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Tale of the Rat (Nezumi zōshi emaki)