The Cicada Shell (Utsusemi), Illustration to Chapter 3 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)

The Cicada Shell (Utsusemi), Illustration to Chapter 3 of the Tale of Genji

The painting titled "The Cicada Shell (Utsusemi), Illustration to Chapter 3 of the Tale of Genji" is attributed to Tosa Mitsunobu, a prominent Japanese artist known for his contributions to the Tosa school of painting. Created using ink and color on paper, this work exemplifies the refined aesthetic and narrative style characteristic of the Tosa school, which specialized in yamato-e, or traditional Japanese painting. The illustration is part of a larger body of work that visually interprets "The Tale of Genji," a classic of Japanese literature written by Murasaki Shikibu in the early 11th century. Tosa Mitsunobu's work is significant for its meticulous attention to detail and its ability to convey the subtleties of courtly life during the Heian period. As the founder of the Tosa school, Mitsunobu played a crucial role in preserving and advancing traditional Japanese artistic techniques during a time of increasing cultural exchange with China. His contributions have had a lasting impact on the development of Japanese art, influencing subsequent generations of artists.

"The Cicada Shell (Utsusemi), Illustration to Chapter 3 of the Tale of Genji" by Tosa Mitsunobu is an exquisite example of Japanese Yamato-e style, characterized by its delicate use of ink and color on paper to depict scenes from classical literature. The artwork illustrates a moment from the "Tale of Genji," capturing the refined aesthetics and narrative depth of the Heian period.