Artwork

Mountain View and Blue Water

Mountain View and Blue Water, by Tanomura Chikuden, unspecified, 1804
Mountain View and Blue Water, by Tanomura Chikuden, unspecified, 1804

Mountain View and Blue Water is an unspecified painting by the Nihonga artist Tanomura Chikuden. It dates from 1804 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1985.250
Credit line
The Kelvin Smith Collection, given by Mrs. Kelvin Smith

About this work

The custom wooden box it came in tells us it was shown at a memorial for his adopted son, proof that even small works were treasured.

You see soft blue mountains fading into mist, a quiet river, and a few bare trees on a scroll.

The artist painted this in the early 1800s, copying a style from 600-year-old Chinese scrolls. The custom wooden box it came in tells us it was shown at a memorial for his adopted son, proof that even small works were treasured.

To see how Japanese artists borrowed from China, look up japan, edo period (1615–1868).

Overview

Mountain View and Blue Water is a painting by Tanomura Chikuden, created in the early 19th century. It is a scroll featuring a serene landscape.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a tranquil scene with soft blue mountains receding into mist, a calm river, and sparse bare trees. The work emulates the style of the Mi family of Chinese painters from the Southern Song dynasty.

Technique & Style

The painting is executed on silk and is characterized by its Chinese-inspired style, reflecting the artistic influences of the time.

History & Provenance

The painting was displayed at a memorial gathering marking the 10th anniversary of Chokunyū's death, as evidenced by its custom-made box and associated documents. The silk wrapper is inscribed and sealed by members of Chokunyū's community.

Landscape with Gentle Peaks
Landscape with Gentle Peaks, Kan Tenju

Artist & collection

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 Mountain View and Blue Water?

Mountain View and Blue Water was painted by Tanomura Chikuden in 1804.

Where can I see Mountain View and Blue Water?

Mountain View and Blue Water is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Mountain View and Blue Water?

Mountain View and Blue Water is associated with Nihonga.