Soken, Yamaguchi

Place: Kyōto

Born: 1759

Death: 1818

Biography:

Yamaguchi Soken

, also known as Takejirō, was a renowned Japanese painter of the Shijō school, born in 1759 in Kyoto, Japan. He was one of the "Ten Great Ones" taught by Maruyama Ōkyo. As the son of a kimono merchant, Soken developed a specialty in painting women, and his skill in this area became legendary.

Life and Work

Soken's artistic career was marked by his ability to create stunning landscapes, pictures of birds and flowers, and genre scenes that showcased the life and customs of Kyoto. His work is characterized by a light and witty touch, making him one of the most celebrated artists of his time. Soken also produced illustrated books, including Yamato jimbutsu gafu (Japanese Portrait Gallery) and Yamato jimbutsu gafu kōhen (Human Figure Drawing). Some of his notable works include the fusuma (sliding door) paintings he designed with Matsumura Keibun, entitled "Summer to Autumn; flowers and birds" (1813), which are currently held at the Nezu Museum. Other pieces of his work can be found in the permanent collections of the British Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the University of Michigan Museum of Art.

Artistic Style and Legacy

Soken's artistic style is characterized by his use of mineral pigments and organic materials on silk or paper. His work is a testament to the traditional Japanese art form, while also showcasing his unique perspective and skill. As one of the "Ten Great Ones," Soken played an important role in shaping the Shijō school's artistic style. Key aspects of Soken's work include:

• His ability to capture the essence of Japanese women and landscapes
• His use of traditional Japanese materials and techniques
• His contribution to the Shijō school's artistic style

Soken's legacy can be seen in his numerous works, which continue to inspire artists and art lovers alike. His work is a testament to the enduring power of traditional Japanese art. For more information on Yamaguchi Soken and his work, visit Wikioo.org or check out his page on Wikipedia.