Artwork

新曲図屏風|“Takebun,” from the Musical Drama “The New Piece” (“Shinkyoku”)

新曲図屏風|“Takebun,” from the Musical Drama “The New Piece” (“Shinkyoku”), by Unknown, ink, 1618
新曲図屏風|“Takebun,” from the Musical Drama “The New Piece” (“Shinkyoku”), by Unknown, ink, 1618

新曲図屏風|“Takebun,” from the Musical Drama “The New Piece” (“Shinkyoku”) is an ink painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1618 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This artwork is a pair of six-panel folding screens depicting a serene landscape.

About this work

Overview

This artwork is a pair of six-panel folding screens depicting a serene landscape. Executed in ink, color, gold, and silver leaf on paper, it presents a dreamy scene with rolling hills, misty rivers, and fluffy clouds.

Subject & Meaning

The screens illustrate “Takebun,” a scene from the musical drama “The New Piece” (“Shinkyoku”). The composition features scattered trees, buildings, and figures, creating a sense of depth and tranquility.

Technique & Style

The artist employed delicate lines to build up shadows and textures, achieving a sketch-like quality. Gold and silver leaf add a warm, luminous effect to the scene, while cross-hatching techniques contribute to the creation of depth.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known