Artwork

Kingfisher Perched above a Stream

Kingfisher Perched above a Stream, by Kenkō Shōkei, unspecified, 1404
Kingfisher Perched above a Stream, by Kenkō Shōkei, unspecified, 1404

Kingfisher Perched above a Stream is an unspecified painting by the Renaissance artist Kenkō Shōkei. It dates from 1404 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Kingfisher Perched above a Stream is a landscape painting attributed to Kenkō Shōkei, dated to around 1404. It is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene natural scene featuring a bird, likely a kingfisher, perched on a bare branch above a winding stream. The composition includes rocks, grass, and a distant mountain, evoking a sense of tranquility.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by a subdued color palette dominated by browns and grays, with touches of blue at the top and bottom edges. The artist's style is marked by simplicity and precision, with a focus on natural elements.

History & Provenance

Created during the early Muromachi period, the painting reflects the artistic tendencies of its time. Small red stamps in the corner may serve as the artist's signature.

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.