Who painted Girl Holding a Cricket Cage?

Girl Holding a Cricket Cage was painted by Kono Bairei in 1888.

Where can I see Girl Holding a Cricket Cage?

Girl Holding a Cricket Cage is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Girl Holding a Cricket Cage?

Girl Holding a Cricket Cage is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Girl Holding a Cricket Cage?

Museum-quality prints of Girl Holding a Cricket Cage are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Girl Holding a Cricket Cage

Kono Bairei , 1888

Girl Holding a Cricket Cage is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Kono Bairei. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1985.290
Credit line: The Kelvin Smith Collection, given by Mrs. Kelvin Smith

About this work

Overview

Girl Holding a Cricket Cage, a drawing by Kōno Bairei circa 1888, exemplifies the Maruyama-Shijo school's aesthetic through its depiction of a young woman gently holding a small, woven cage, likely containing a pet cricket.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a serene girl in traditional attire, embodies the naturalistic and refined themes of kacho-e (bird-and-flower prints), while the cricket cage alludes to a popular Japanese pastime of keeping insects as pets.

Technique & Style

Characterized by simple yet assured lines and soft shading, the drawing conveys a sense of spontaneity, resembling a quick sketch of daily life, despite its technical mastery.

History & Provenance

Created during the Meiji period, the work reflects the era's blend of traditional Japanese painting techniques with emerging artistic influences. It is currently part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.