Cranes
This diptych offers a close-up depiction of auspicious Chinese pictorial subjects—cranes and bamboo, set against a backdrop of pines. The composition draws upon ink painting of the Muromachi period (1392–1573), a tradition inspired by imported Chinese styles. However, in this piece, the cranes—symbols of longevity and good fortune—are rendered with almost humanlike expressions, enhancing their interaction. This expressiveness is a hallmark of the Kyoto painter Soga Shōhaku.
One of the major Japanese artists of the eighteenth century, Shōhaku was known for his outlandish behavior, sometimes unrestrained approach to painting, and rebellious personality, qualities that were frequently commented on by his contemporaries. His audacious individuality and departure from convention distinguished him from his peers and have earned his works a renewed high esteem today.
One of the major Japanese artists of the eighteenth century, Shōhaku was known for his outlandish behavior, sometimes unrestrained approach to painting, and rebellious personality, qualities that were frequently commented on by his contemporaries. His audacious individuality and departure from convention distinguished him from his peers and have earned his works a renewed high esteem today.
Artwork Details
- 曾我蕭白筆 鶴図
- Title: Cranes
- Artist: Soga Shōhaku (Japanese, 1730–1781)
- Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
- Date: ca. 1760
- Culture: Japan
- Medium: Pair of hanging scrolls; ink on paper
- Dimensions: Image: 52 3/4 × 22 1/16 in. (134 × 56 cm)
Overall with mounting: 90 3/16 × 28 in. (229 × 71.1 cm)
Overall with knobs: 90 3/16 × 30 1/4 in. (229.1 × 76.8 cm) - Classification: Paintings
- Credit Line: Mary and Cheney Cowles Collection, Gift of Mary and Cheney Cowles, 2019
- Object Number: 2019.420.24a, b
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
More Artwork
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Soga Shōhaku
ca. 1768
Soga Shōhaku
ca. 1761–63
Soga Shōhaku
ca. 1762–66
Returned to lender
Soga Shōhaku
ca. 1760–67
Returned to lender
Soga Shōhaku
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