“The Safflower” (Suetsumuhana), from the Phantom Genji Scrolls (Maboroshi no Genji monogatari emaki), Scroll 2
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.The story of Genji’s encounter with Suetsumuhana, the Safflower Princess, unfolds across three scrolls in the Phantom Genji set. The artist’s attention to detail is evident in the depiction of the princess’s dilapidated mansion. Moss and green plants sprout from the cypress roof and streaks of watery ink represent the dirt on the plaster. The artist also depicts the princess’s unfortunate red nose, which earlier painters avoided.
Artwork Details
- 幻の源氏物語絵巻 「末摘花」
- Title: “The Safflower” (Suetsumuhana), from the Phantom Genji Scrolls (Maboroshi no Genji monogatari emaki), Scroll 2
- Artist: Kyō-Kano School
- Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
- Date: mid-17th century
- Culture: Japan
- Medium: Handscroll from a set of three; ink, color, and gold on paper
- Dimensions: 13 15/16 × 89 in. (35.4 × 226.1 cm)
- Classification: Paintings
- Credit Line: Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs, Photography
Collection, The New York Public Library, Astor, Lenox and Tilden Foundations - Curatorial Department: Asian Art