Artwork

Banana Plant and Chrysanthemum

Banana Plant and Chrysanthemum, by Tsubaki Chinzan, 1850
Banana Plant and Chrysanthemum, by Tsubaki Chinzan, 1850

Banana Plant and Chrysanthemum is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Tsubaki Chinzan. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Banana Plant and Chrysanthemum is a drawing by Tsubaki Chinzan, created around 1850. It is a delicate representation of two plants, rendered in a subtle color palette.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a banana plant with curved leaves and a flowering cluster, accompanied by a chrysanthemum bush with green leaves and yellow buds. The simple composition emphasizes the natural forms of the plants.

Technique & Style

The work is executed in ink and watercolor, with soft blues, greens, and touches of red. Loose yet controlled brushstrokes prioritize capturing the shapes and essence of the plants over detailed representation.

History & Provenance

The drawing is signed in Japanese along the left side, reflecting its cultural origins. It is currently held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Tsubaki Chinzan

Artist

Tsubaki Chinzan

Tsubaki Chinzan, originally Tasuku was a Japanese painter in the nanga style. His other art names include Hekiin Sambō, Kyūan (休庵), Shikyūan (四休庵) and Takukadō (琢華堂).

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.