The Twilight Beauty (Yūgao), Illustration to Chapter 4 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)

Tosa Mitsunobu

Created:

Movement:

unknown

None

key Notes:

Transience and Elegance.

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 Twilight Beauty (Yūgao), Illustration to Chapter 4 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" is a significant work by Tosa Mitsunobu, created during the Muromachi period in Japan, which illustrates a pivotal moment in the narrative of Murasaki Shikibu's classic tale. This painting exemplifies the Tosa school's distinctive style, characterized by its intricate detail and use of color, and reflects the cultural and aesthetic values of the Heian period, particularly in its portrayal of the ephemeral beauty and emotional depth of its characters.

Description of the work:

"The Twilight Beauty (Yūgao), Illustration to Chapter 4 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" by Tosa Mitsunobu is characterized by its delicate use of color and intricate detailing, typical of the Yamato-e style, which emphasizes a harmonious relationship between figures and nature. The composition features a serene female figure, draped in flowing garments, set against a backdrop of lush foliage and a twilight sky, effectively conveying the ethereal quality of the narrative moment.

Artwork Photograph Source:

Harvard Art Museum

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