Canon

About the Works

Cranes

Ogata Korin

  • Cranes / Ogata Korin
  • Cranes / Ogata Korin

Facsimiles of works in the collection of the Freer Gallery of Art, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC: Purchase, F1956.20, F1956.21

These images are based on the high resolution facsimile produced by the Tsuzuri Project. Unauthorized copying, duplication, or transfer of these images is strictly prohibited.

DATA
Artist:
Ogata Korin
Historical era:
Edo (17th to 18th century)
Material:
printed, gold on washi paper
Medium:
Pair of six-fold screens
Theme:
High Resolution Facsimile of Japanese Art Abroad
Size:
Each screen H166.0 × W371.0 cm
Recipient:
Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum (Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture)MAP
[Original]
Current owner:
The Freer Gallery of Art of the Smithsonian Institution
Material:
ink, color and gold on washi paper
DESCRIPTION

This bold composition presents a grouping of black and white cranes extending to the left and right across a gold background. It is the work of Ogata Korin, a painter representative of the Edo period who created his own world with innovative compositions and graceful depictions. The 19 cranes in this work, grouped in a rhythmic arrangement, are walking in a stylized manner toward the center of the folding screen. Stylized swirling waves at both ends of the screen create a unique sense of space. Korin was born to the family who operated the wealthy drapery store "Kariganeya" in Kyoto, where he began painting full-time in his 40s. Korin represented the Rimpa School, with its rich decorative style that flourished during the Edo Period. In later years, Sakai Hoitsu and Suzuki Kiitsu drew with a similar sense of composition and demonstrated the flow of the Rimpa School.

About the Works