Artwork
Mountain View and Blue Water
Mountain View and Blue Water is an unspecified painting by the Nihonga artist Tanomura Chikuden. It dates from 1804 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
The custom wooden box it came in tells us it was shown at a memorial for his adopted son—proof that even small works were treasured.
You see soft blue mountains fading into mist, a quiet river, and a few bare trees on a scroll.
The artist painted this in the early 1800s, copying a style from 600-year-old Chinese scrolls. The custom wooden box it came in tells us it was shown at a memorial for his adopted son—proof that even small works were treasured.
To see how Japanese artists borrowed from China, look up *japan, edo period (1615–1868)*.
Overview
Mountain View and Blue Water is a painting by Tanomura Chikuden, created in the early 19th century. It is a scroll featuring a serene landscape.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a tranquil scene with soft blue mountains receding into mist, a calm river, and sparse bare trees. The work emulates the style of the Mi family of Chinese painters from the Southern Song dynasty.
Technique & Style
The painting is executed on silk and is characterized by its Chinese-inspired style, reflecting the artistic influences of the time.
History & Provenance
The painting was displayed at a memorial gathering marking the 10th anniversary of Chokunyū's death, as evidenced by its custom-made box and associated documents. The silk wrapper is inscribed and sealed by members of Chokunyū's community.
Artist & collection
