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

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

The Twilight Beauty (Yūgao) is an illustration by Tosa Mitsunobu, created using ink and color on paper. This work is an interpretation of Chapter 4 from the classic Japanese literary work, The Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari), which is considered one of the world's first novels. Tosa Mitsunobu, active during the late 15th and early 16th centuries, was a prominent figure in the Tosa school of painting, known for its detailed and narrative-driven style. The painting exemplifies the Tosa school's emphasis on courtly elegance and refined aesthetics, capturing the delicate beauty and emotional depth of the story. Mitsunobu's work played a significant role in preserving and illustrating classical Japanese literature, contributing to the cultural heritage of Japan. His illustrations are valued for their historical significance and their ability to convey the subtleties of Heian-period court life.

"The Twilight Beauty (Yūgao), Illustration to Chapter 4 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 poignant moment from the "Tale of Genji," capturing the ethereal beauty and emotional depth of the narrative.