Artwork

Winter Day

Winter Day, by Maruyama Ōkyo, unspecified, 1792
Winter Day, by Maruyama Ōkyo, unspecified, 1792

Winter Day is an unspecified painting by the Nihonga artist Maruyama Ōkyo. It dates from 1792 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Winter Day, painted by Maruyama Ōkyo in 1792, is a modestly sized work in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The composition presents a quiet winter scene, dominated by pale whites and earthy browns, and is organized around a gently curving landscape that recedes toward a distant horizon.

Subject & Meaning

The image captures a tranquil seasonal moment: rolling hills softened by snow, leaf‑bare trees, and a narrow bridge crossing a shallow stream. The sparse, muted palette emphasizes the stillness of cold weather, inviting contemplation of nature’s subdued beauty during the winter months.

Technique & Style

Ōkyo employs fine, controlled brushwork to render delicate textures in the foliage and water, while subtle gradations of light and shadow create atmospheric depth. The restrained coloration and precise detailing reflect his interest in realistic observation, typical of the late‑eighteenth‑century Japanese painting tradition.

History & Provenance

Created in the late Edo period, Winter Day entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection through acquisition in the twentieth century. Its presence in an American institution highlights the growing appreciation for Japanese art outside its native context during the early modern era.

Summer and Winter Landscapes (one of a pair)
Summer and Winter Landscapes (one of a pair), Kano Naonobu

Artist & collection

Portrait of Maruyama Ōkyo

Artist

Maruyama Ōkyo

Maruyama Ōkyo (円山 応挙; Japanese pronunciation: , June 12, 1733 – August 31, 1795), born Maruyama Masataka, was a Japanese artist active in the late 18th century.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Winter Day?

Winter Day was painted by Maruyama Ōkyo in 1784-01-01.

Where can I see Winter Day?

Winter Day is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Winter Day?

Winter Day is associated with Nihonga.