Artwork

Autumn in Takao

Autumn in Takao, by Kiyohara Yukinobu, unspecified, 1673
Autumn in Takao, by Kiyohara Yukinobu, unspecified, 1673

Autumn in Takao is an unspecified painting by the Ukiyo-e artist Kiyohara Yukinobu. It dates from 1673 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Autumn in Takao is a painting created by Kiyohara Yukinobu in 1673. This work, now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, presents a detailed depiction of a flowering tree. The composition emphasizes natural forms and a sense of tranquility, characteristic of the period's artistic sensibilities. It serves as an example of Yukinobu's approach to nature studies.

Subject & Meaning

The light brown background provides a subtle contrast, allowing the botanical details to emerge with clarity and contributing to the work's serene atmosphere.

The painting focuses on a tree adorned with vibrant red blossoms and verdant green leaves. Its branches curve gracefully upwards, occupying the right side of the canvas. A slender strip of paper, inscribed with Japanese characters, hangs from one of these branches, introducing a cultural element. The light brown background provides a subtle contrast, allowing the botanical details to emerge with clarity and contributing to the work's serene atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Yukinobu employs a restrained palette, where the vivid red flowers and green foliage are set against a muted, light brown ground. This deliberate contrast highlights the natural forms without overwhelming the viewer. The composition is uncluttered, suggesting a focus on clarity and elegance. The artist's approach contributes to the painting's overall sense of simplicity and peace, reflecting a refined aesthetic.

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.