Student Artwork Guide
Copyright This work is in the public domain. soga shohaku died in 1781; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1851.
In context
Cranes — soga shohaku
The original measures 134 × 56 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.
Shaded: the lifetime of soga shohaku (1730–1781) ▲ this work, 1760
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Measured from the image
Main colour
Rosy Brown #b79b74
Catalogued palette
About this artwork
Cranes — soga shohaku
Two cranes, one striding aggressively forward with open beak, the other with its head gracefully lowered as if in submission, face each other within the diptych format. Crisp, precise brushwork outlining the cranes’ plumage, and the combination of brush lines and wash used to delineate their bodies can also be seen in the mix of line and wash on the foliage in the left scroll and the bamboo branches and leaves on the right. The composition derives from the old tradition of Muromachi-period ink painting, but here the cranes—symbols of longevity and good fortune—are depicted with almost human-like expressions that enliven the image. This characteristic appears in other paintings by the unconventional and “eccentric” Soga Shōhaku.One of the major Japanese artists of the eighteenth century, Shōhaku’s outlandish behavior, sometimes unrestrained approach to painting (especially in his early career), and rebellious personality were noted by his contemporaries. His individuality and “modern” sensibilities are much appreciated today.
Artist and museum
Born in Kyoto, Japan
soga shōhaku, a japanese painter from the edo period (1730-1781), defied conventions with his unique brush style, reminiscent of the muromachi period, which was already 150 years out of vogue by the time of his birth. this distinctive approach set him apart from his contemporaries.
* race at uji river (harvard art museums, cambridge, united states): this polychromatic screen, depicting a famous episode from the 14th-century war epic "the tale of the heike," showcases shōhaku's pictorial grotesquerie. it is a rare example of his work in full color. * the immortal li tieguai (128 x 28 cm, paper): this piece illustrates the story of one of the eight chinese immortals, li tieguai, and demonstrates shōhaku's ability to convey complex narratives through his art.
* shōhaku's preference for the muromachi period's brush style reflects an aesthetic that was already passé by the time of his birth. this choice not only distinguishes him from his contemporaries but also highlights his unique artistic vision. * his monstrous depictions of prominent figures were extremely unusual compared to other painters of his time, further solidifying his position as an unconventional artist.
discover soga shōhaku's works in the artist profile on AllPaintingsStore.
learn more about japanese art movements, including the bunjinga art movement, which influenced shōhaku's style.
view other notable artists from the edo period in AllPaintingsStore's extensive collection, including mori ransai.
soga shōhaku's unorthodox approach to japanese painting during the edo period has left an indelible mark on art history. his unique style, characterized by monstrous depictions and a preference for outdated aesthetics, continues to fascinate art lovers today. explore his works and those of other influential artists at AllPaintingsStore, the virtual museum for art aficionados. references:
soga shōhaku - artist profile, AllPaintingsStore
the bunjinga art movement, AllPaintingsStore
mori ransai - artist profile, AllPaintingsStore
related artists:
ito jakuchu, known for his unique use of vegetables and plants in his art.
kano einō, a prominent member of the preeminent kano family workshop.
wahooart.com/en/art/download/soga-shohaku-cranes-D3599E-en/
Look closely
Cranes — soga shohaku
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