Anonymous

Camellia & Bamboo

Taisho era

Two-panel Japanese Screen. Mineral pigment, gofun and ink on silk.

Dimensions: H. 77.5 cm x W. 173 cm (30.5” x 68”)

A small Japanese Nihonga screen capturing a moment suspended in time where each element - from the feathery bamboo to the immaculate bloom of the camellia and the brilliant blue water beyond - combine to form a picture of perfect harmony. The fleeting warmth of the winter’s sun is a paradox to the cold, a reminder that even in winter, life thrives and flourishes. The visual contrast between the elements is striking. The Bamboo’s slender and brittle leaves contrast beautifully with the dense, broad leaves and showy flowers of the camellia. Similarly the lush pigments of the deep green camellia foliage and brilliant blue water contrast strongly with the neutral colors of the bamboo, which are largely defined by the natural color of the silk canvas. Known as tsubaki in Japanese, camellia flowers have been revered since ancient times, embodying elegance and resilience. They thrive in the middle of Japan’s harsh winters, especially if they are sheltered from cold winds and frost.

Nihonga, which means “Japanese-style painting,” was a response to the Western influence that was prevalent during the era but aimed to maintain and celebrate Japan’s artistic heritage. Nihonga artists during the Taisho period continued to employ traditional Japanese painting techniques and materials though began to experiment with color palettes, compositions and brush techniques. Nihonga painting often continued the tradition of depicting the beauty of the natural world, with a focus on landscapes, flowers, and birds. Artists combined these themes with modern influences, creating a fusion of tradition and modernity.