Cranes

: 1820
: Harvard Art Museums

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).

Questions & Answers

Is "Cranes" free of copyright?

The copyright answer for "Cranes" by Suzuki Kiitsu: the work is in the public domain - its copyright has expired. This determines whether reproductions of the image may be freely made.

Who created "Cranes" and in what year?

The author of "Cranes" is Suzuki Kiitsu, and the work is dated 1820.

How can I view "Cranes" by Suzuki Kiitsu as a slideshow?

The diaporama of "Cranes" can be watched on the artwork's Diaporama page.

By the TopImpressionists.com Editorial Team

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 a global tapestry of art from the Renaissance to modern eras in Cambridge. Discover masterpieces at the Harvard Art Museums today.

About this artwork

Title: Cranes
Artist: Suzuki Kiitsu
Year: 1820
Format: Panoramic
Copyright status: Public domain
Where to see it: Harvard Art Museums
Main color: Driftwood
Color intensity: Vivid