Artwork Info: Cranes

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Cranes

The sublime simplicity of the supple necks and luxuriant feathers of this group of cranes is complemented by the tangle of angular legs at ground level. A patch of water bridges the gap between the two screens, compelling unification in the mind’s eye. As the birds call to and gaze at each other in the shallow pictorial space, their body language echoes the distinctive coiled ripples inked on the azurite water. Although iconic in its own right, Kiitsu’s painting also self-consciously extends an emblem of the School of Kōrin by creatively reprising a crane painting by his master, Sakai Hōitsu (1761–1828). Hōitsu’s painting was itself a reworking of a magnificent pair of crane screens by Ogata Kōrin (1658–1716).

Suzuki Kiitsu (1796 – 1858)

Suzuki Kiitsu (1796-1858) was a prominent Rinpa painter known for his stunning folding screens & nature scenes. Reinterpreted works showcase his skill & influence.

Harvard Art Museums (Cambridge, United States of America)

Explore world-class art at Harvard Art Museums! Featuring masterpieces from Renaissance paintings to Asian & modern works within Renzo Piano's stunning building—a must-see Cambridge destination.

About this artwork

Title: Cranes
Artist: Suzuki Kiitsu
Year: 1820
Format: Panoramic
Copyright status: Public domain
Where to see it: Harvard Art Museums
Color palette: Dark
Perceived brightness: bright

Cranes

Suzuki Kiitsu (1796 – 1858)

Harvard Art Museums (Cambridge, United States of America)

About this artwork

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