The Paulownia Pavilion (Kiritsubo), Illustration to Chapter 1 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)

Tosa Mitsunobu

Created:

Movement:

unknown

None

key Notes:

Elegance of Heian Court Life, Narrative Visuality

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:

"The Paulownia Pavilion (Kiritsubo), Illustration to Chapter 1 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" is a significant work by Tosa Mitsunobu, created in the late 16th century, which visually interprets the opening chapter of Murasaki Shikibu's classic novel. This painting exemplifies the Tosa school’s distinctive style, characterized by intricate detail and vibrant colors, and reflects the cultural and aesthetic values of the Heian period, emphasizing the themes of beauty and transience central to the narrative.

Description of the work:

"The Paulownia Pavilion (Kiritsubo), Illustration to Chapter 1 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" by Tosa Mitsunobu is characterized by its intricate composition and vibrant color palette, typical of the Edo period's Yamato-e style. The painting depicts the serene landscape surrounding the Paulownia Pavilion, with detailed representations of flora and architecture, effectively conveying the narrative's emotional depth and cultural context.

Artwork Photograph Source:

Harvard Art Museum

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