Who painted Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees?

Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees was painted by Aoki Mokubei in 1824-01-01.

Where can I see Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees?

Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees is held by Metropolitan Museum of Art.

What movement is Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees?

Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees is associated with Nanga.

Can I buy a print of Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees?

Museum-quality prints of Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees

Aoki Mokubei , 1824

Brewing Tea in the Shade of Trees is an unspecified painting by the Nanga artist Aoki Mokubei. It dates from 1824 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1824 by Aoki Mokubei, this hanging scroll presents a tranquil riverside landscape framed by distant mountains and a canopy of trees. The composition is dominated by muted tones of gray, brown and subdued green, punctuated by occasional hints of pink and blue that soften the scene. A solitary figure is perched beneath a tree, suggesting a moment of quiet contemplation.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure appears engaged in the ritual of tea drinking, an activity traditionally associated with refinement and meditation in Japanese culture. By situating this act within a natural setting, the work evokes the harmony between human practice and the surrounding environment, inviting viewers to consider the serene balance of daily life and nature.

Technique & Style

Mokubei employs a loose, sketch‑like brushwork that favors suggestion over precise delineation, allowing forms to emerge from gestural strokes. The palette remains restrained, with earth tones establishing atmosphere, while the occasional bright floral border in red and gold provides a decorative counterpoint that frames the composition without overwhelming it.

History & Provenance

The painting entered the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it is currently displayed. Its provenance traces back to early 19th‑century Japan, reflecting Mokubei’s activity during the late Edo period, a time when literati painting and the integration of Chinese aesthetic principles were prominent among Japanese artists.