Artwork
Birds and Flowers
Birds and Flowers is an unspecified painting by the Kanō school artist Kano Shōei. It dates from 1504 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This artwork, comprising a pair of folding screens, depicts a serene landscape unfolding across four seasons, accompanied by various birds.
- Accession no.
- 1948.128.1
- Credit line
- Gift of William G. Mather
About this work
The artist painted a quiet fight: a hawk attacks a pheasant while ducks swim calmly nearby.
Two tall folding screens show birds and flowers across four seasons. Plum blossoms start on the right, then irises, peonies, and bellflowers follow left.
The artist painted a quiet fight: a hawk attacks a pheasant while ducks swim calmly nearby. This contrast, violence next to peace, is common in Japanese art of the time.
Look up the subject: japan, momoyama period (1573–1615) to see more works like this.
Overview
This artwork, comprising a pair of folding screens, depicts a serene landscape unfolding across four seasons, accompanied by various birds.
Subject & Meaning
The scene progresses from right to left, showcasing blossoming plum trees in early spring and late autumn peonies, with smaller birds and a trio of ducks amidst irises and bellflowers. The presence of raptors and peafowl may symbolize military prowess and cultural prestige.
Technique & Style
The painting juxtaposes violent and peaceful scenes, a contrast characteristic of Japanese art during this period, as exemplified by a hawk attacking a pheasant near calmly swimming ducks.
Context
The artwork is representative of the Momoyama period in Japan, a time marked by distinct artistic themes and styles.
Artist & collection
