Who painted Hanshan and Shide (Kanzan and Jittoku)?

Hanshan and Shide (Kanzan and Jittoku) was painted by Shikibu Terutada in 1550-01-01.

Where can I see Hanshan and Shide (Kanzan and Jittoku)?

Hanshan and Shide (Kanzan and Jittoku) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

Hanshan and Shide (Kanzan and Jittoku)

Hanshan and Shide (Kanzan and Jittoku) is an unspecified painting by Shikibu Terutada. It dates from 1550 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the two legendary Chinese figures Hanshan and Shide, known in Japanese as Kanzan and Jittoku.

The painting depicts the two legendary Chinese figures Hanshan and Shide, known in Japanese as Kanzan and Jittoku. These characters are traditionally portrayed as eccentric, ragged recluses who embody the ideals of Zen Buddhism, specifically the rejection of worldly attachments and the attainment of enlightenment through spontaneous, intuitive wisdom. In this work by Shikibu Terutada, the figures serve as a visual meditation on the Zen path, symbolizing a life lived outside conventional social structures in favor of spiritual freedom and natural simplicity.

History & Provenance

Created in Japan in 1550, this painting depicts the figures Hanshan and Shide (Kanzan and Jittoku). The work was executed by the artist Shikibu Terutada, active during the mid-sixteenth century. It is held by the Cleveland Museum of Art in Cleveland, Ohio, where it is cataloged under accession number 2015.592. The available sources do not record any specific exhibitions for the piece.

Overview

Shikibu Terutada's painting, Hanshan and Shide (Kanzan and Jittoku), created around 1550, captures two legendary Buddhist figures. This work, now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, exemplifies the artist's approach to depicting these eccentric monks. The composition features the pair in a distinctive setting, reflecting their traditional portrayal in East Asian art.

Technique & Style

Terutada's style is evident in the depiction of the two monks as round, smiling figures with large eyes and full cheeks, conveying a sense of jovial contentment. They appear to float above a rocky precipice, dressed in simple robes. One figure carries a staff, while the other holds a fan, traditional attributes associated with their characters. Bamboo sprouts from the rocks below, set against a soft yellow background.

Hanshan and Shide (Kanzan and Jittoku), Shikibu Terutada

Artist & collection

Artist

Shikibu Terutada

Japanese, active mid–16th century

Museum

Cleveland Museum of Art

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