Phoenixes and Paulownia [right of a pair], early 18th century
Kano Tanshinexpand_more
Ink, color, and gold on silkexpand_more
The Christina N. and Swan J. Turnblad Memorial Fundexpand_more 2003.57.1
Not on Viewexpand_more
In 1674, Kano Tanshin succeeded his father, Tan'yū, to become head of the famous and powerful Kano House of painters in the capital of Edo, where the studio catered to the military rulers of Japan. The subject of this pair of screens suggests that it may have been commissioned to convey a political message. According to ancient Chinese and Japanese beliefs, phoenixes only descend from the heavens when earthly kingdoms are under just and compassionate leadership. There they raise their young in the boughs of paulownia trees, the nectar of which provides nourishment. Thus, these screens would have served as more than just a beautiful backdrop in a palatial hall; they would have suggested that their owner was an admirable governor.
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Details
- Title
- Phoenixes and Paulownia [right of a pair]
- Artist Life
- 1653 - 1718
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2003.57.1
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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