Crane and Pine Tree with Rising Sun

  

Initial Reaction: 

This piece in-particular caught my attention. The first thing that stands out about this piece was how the base of the tree is cut off showing that the tree has no end. It is fascinating how the artist brush work used on the leafs on the tree to give them a more puffy - cloud like attribute. This piece has some what of a light color palette. The colors the artist choose are easy on the eyes and adds more volume to the piece. It is intriguing how the artist gave the sun in the background a dissipating aspect as if the artist was trying to create a sunrise or sunset.  

After Research:  

The "Crane and Pine Tree with Rising Sun" is an early 19th century Japanese painting created by Suzuki Kiitsu. In the Japanese culture, the crane represents good fortune and long life span. Just as the Crane, the pine tree also represents good fortune and longevity. The red circle that is present in the art piece is called the Hinomaru "circle of the sun" has been incorporated into the Japanese flag since the Edo period. Suzuki Kiitsu ensured the future of Rinpa Art into modern times. Suzuki was a firm believer in keeping to tradtion when it came to his art work.  

Sources:

New York. The Metropolitan Museum of Art. "Designing Nature: The Rinpa Aesthetic in Japanese Art," May 26, 2012–January 13, 2013. New York. The Metropolitan Museum of Art. "Birds in the Art of Japan," February 2, 2013–July 28, 2013.