鶴図|Cranes

Soga Shōhaku 曾我蕭白

ca. 1760 · Pair of hanging scrolls; ink on paper · Asian Art

This diptych offers a close-up depiction of auspicious Chinese pictorial subjects—cranes and bamboo, set against a backdrop of pines. The composition draws upon ink painting of the Muromachi period (1392–1573), a tradition inspired by imported Chinese styles. However, in this piece, the cranes—symbols of longevity and good fortune—are rendered with almost humanlike expressions, enhancing their interaction. This expressiveness is a hallmark of the Kyoto painter Soga Shōhaku. One of the major Japanese artists of the eighteenth century, Shōhaku was known for his outlandish behavior, sometimes unrestrained approach to painting, and rebellious personality, qualities that were frequently commented on by his contemporaries. His audacious individuality and departure from convention distinguished him from his peers and have earned his works a renewed high esteem today.

Artist

Soga Shōhaku 曾我蕭白

Date

ca. 1760

Medium

Pair of hanging scrolls; ink on paper

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Mary and Cheney Cowles Collection, Gift of Mary and Cheney Cowles, 2019