ARTIST : Okada Kakusen (fl.1833-1844), the grandson of Okada Kanrin (1775-1849). Okada Kanrin was a disciple of Tani Buncho (1763-1840). Buncho was a masterful and highly ecclectic artist who practised the Nanpin style among many others. In 1788 he travelled to Nagasaki where he studied with the Chinese painter Zhang Quigu, perhaps he remained there for four years. He was also in contact with the Edo based Nanpin artist So Shiseki. The existing works by Kanrin seem to be predominantly Nanpin school and this is what has been passed on to his grandson, Kakusen.
AGE : mid 19th century
SIZE : The scroll measures 81.5'' by 22'' (207 by 56 cm). The image measures 45.5'' by 16.5'' (116 by 42 cm).
DESCRIPTION : An excellent later Edo period example of the Nanpin (Nagasaki) school of bird and flower painting which originated in Nagasaki in the mid 18th century. Nagasaki paintings were inspired by Chinese artist Shen Nanpin who lived in Nagasaki for a number of years around 1730 and had an enormous influence on Japanese painting, bringing with him the last remains of pure late Ming period bird and flower painting. This work by Kakusen features a most lively and engrossing interplay between the two youthful cats and the sparrows. A lucky escape for the bird leading the first cat to give its mate a fierce frowning. His mate appears a little bemused with it all - more of a mind to enjoy the beautiful season.
TECHNIQUE : The work has been painted with ink, gofun and mineral color on silk.
CONDITION : This painting has been recently remounted. It presents very nicely. There are a couple of small flaws to the silk, with the biggest problem being the line above the cats. The images probably overstate the extent of the problem though the repaired crack has darkened.
