Artwork

Omu the Parrot (from the series Seven Elegant Episodes from the Life of the Poetess Ono no Komachi)

Omu the Parrot (from the series Seven Elegant Episodes from the Life of the Poetess Ono no Komachi) is a print by the Romanticist artist Chôbunsai Eishi. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This print, 'Omu the Parrot', is part of a series depicting scenes from the life of the poetess Ono no Komachi, created by Chōbunsai Eishi around 1790. It is a notable example of Japanese art held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print portrays a woman in a kimono with a floral pattern, holding a fan and a parrot in a serene garden setting. The scene is likely one of the 'Seven Elegant Episodes' from Komachi's life, suggesting a narrative or poetic context.

Technique & Style

Rendered in black and white with gray tones, the print showcases Eishi's delicate and intricate style. The simple yet detailed landscape background complements the central figure, highlighting the artist's skill in balancing composition and detail.

Artist & collection

Artist

Chôbunsai Eishi

Chōbunsai Eishi (鳥文斎栄之; 1756–1829) was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist. His last name was Hosoda (細田). His first name was Tokitomi (時富). His common name was Taminosuke (民之丞) and later Yasaburo (弥三郎). Pupil of Kano Eisen'in…