Artwork
Ghost
Ghost is an unspecified painting by Shibata Zeshin. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Ghost, a painting by Japanese artist Shibata Zeshin, dates to circa 1850 and is part of the collection at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a woman clad in a white robe with long black hair, set against a serene light blue background adorned with branches and leaves. Her face is obscured, with eyes closed, contributing to an enigmatic atmosphere that invites contemplation of her unseen emotions or thoughts.
Technique & Style
The work features a distinctive contrast between the sharp, detailed rendering of the woman's attire and surroundings, and the intentional blurring of her facial features, underscoring the mystical ambiance.
History & Provenance
Created in the mid-19th century, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is not detailed here.
Context
'Ghost' reflects elements of Japanese art's tradition of capturing the sublime and the mysterious, possibly alluding to supernatural or spiritual themes prevalent in the era's cultural narrative.
Legacy
As part of Shibata Zeshin's oeuvre, 'Ghost' contributes to the artist's reputation for exploring a range of themes and techniques, though its specific impact on broader art historical movements is not emphasized in available information.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Untitled
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Ghost and Oil Lamp
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Kakemono
The Third Princess and a Cat, from the "New Herbs I" (Wakana I) chapter The Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari}
Untitled
Gyoran Kannon- Ghost and Oil Lamp