Artwork
Bamboo Fence and Chrysanthemums
Bamboo Fence and Chrysanthemums is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Kono Bairei. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1985.284
- Credit line
- The Kelvin Smith Collection, given by Mrs. Kelvin Smith
About this work
Overview
Bamboo Fence and Chrysanthemums is a drawing created in 1890 by Kōno Bairei, a prominent Kyoto-based artist associated with the Maruyama-Shijo school.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing features a serene composition of a bamboo fence accompanied by chrysanthemums, embodying the kacho-e genre's emphasis on birds and flowers. The tranquil depiction contrasts with the tumultuous backdrop of Japan's Meiji period, suggesting the artist's intent to evoke calm through natural subjects.
Technique & Style
Bairei's mastery of kacho-e is evident in the subtle color palette and simple, yet effective, composition, contributing to the overall peaceful ambiance of the piece.
History & Provenance
Created in 1890 during the Meiji period, a time of significant change in Japan, the drawing's provenance and ownership history are not detailed in available information.
Context
The work reflects the artistic traditions of the Maruyama-Shijo school while offering a serene counterpoint to the era's modernization efforts.
Legacy
As a representative of Bairei's work in kacho-e, Bamboo Fence and Chrysanthemums contributes to the understanding and appreciation of late 19th-century Japanese art, particularly the enduring appeal of natural themes during periods of societal transformation.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Kōno Bairei (幸野 楳嶺; March 3, 1844 – February 20, 1895) was a Japanese painter, book illustrator, and art teacher.
