Young Murasaki (Wakamurasaki), Illustration to Chapter 5 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)

Tosa Mitsunobu

Created:

Movement:

unknown

None

key Notes:

Elegance and Literary Illustration.

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:

"Young Murasaki (Wakamurasaki), Illustration to Chapter 5 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" is a significant work by Tosa Mitsunobu, created during the late 16th century, which illustrates a pivotal moment in the narrative of Japan's classic literature. This painting exemplifies the Tosa school’s distinctive style, characterized by its intricate detail and vibrant colors, and reflects the cultural and artistic values of the Muromachi period, as well as the enduring influence of the "Tale of Genji" on Japanese art and literature.

Description of the work:

The painting "Young Murasaki (Wakamurasaki), Illustration to Chapter 5 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)" by Tosa Mitsunobu features a delicately rendered figure of Murasaki, characterized by her flowing robes adorned with intricate patterns, set against a softly colored background that evokes a sense of tranquility. The composition employs a traditional Japanese aesthetic, utilizing a harmonious palette and meticulous attention to detail, which reflects the cultural significance of the narrative within the Heian period context.

Artwork Photograph Source:

Harvard Art Museum

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it. We have put a ton of effort into collating and organizing all of this.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.