Morikawa Kyoriku

Place: Edo

Born: 1656

Death: 1715

Biography:

Life and Artistic Career

, also known as Kyoroku, was a prominent Japanese painter, poet, and calligrapher born in Edo, Japan in 1656. He passed away in 1715, leaving behind a legacy in the literati school of painting, which emphasized the expression of personal feelings and ideas through art.

Artistic Style and Notable Works

Kyoriku's artistic style was characterized by his landscapes and figure paintings, often depicting scholars and literati in natural settings. His work Passage from “A Modern-Day Wen Xuan: Selections of Refined Literature” (119 x 28 cm, Paper) is a notable example of his cursive, idiosyncratic yet legible characters, showcasing his mastery of kana and kanji.

• Morikawa Kyoriku's use of monochromatic ink and emphasis on personal expression set him apart from traditional Japanese painting styles.
• His work was highly regarded in his time, reflecting the influence of Chinese literati painting and calligraphy.
• Kyoriku's close friendship with the famous Japanese artist Hishikawa Moronobu further solidified his position within the literati school.

Museums and Collections Featuring Morikawa Kyoriku's Work

• The Menard Art Museum in Komaki, Japan, features a collection of Western art that includes works by European artists from the 19th and 20th centuries.
• Although not specifically focused on Morikawa Kyoriku's work, The Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art in Japan showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary Japanese art, reflecting the country's rich artistic heritage.

Legacy and Influence

contributions to the literati school of painting have had a lasting impact on Japanese art. His emphasis on personal expression and fusion of art, calligraphy, and poetry continue to inspire modern Japanese artists.

• Tomioka Tessai, another notable artist, was influenced by Kyoriku's style and went on to create his own masterpieces, such as Summer and Autumn Grasses.
• Kyoriku's work can be seen in various museums and private collections worldwide, including the Freer Gallery of Art in Washington D.C.

Conclusion

Morikawa Kyoriku's life and artistic career serve as a testament to the enduring power of literati painting. His legacy continues to be celebrated through his works, which can be found in museums and private collections around the world.

• View Morikawa Kyoriku's artwork on Wikioo.org
• Explore more literati artists and their works on Wikioo.org