Komai Genki “Sugawara Michizane”

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IItem No.	J123
Title	“Sugawara Michizane”／Ink on paper
Overall size	164.0cm×35.5cm
Artwork size	81.5cm×25.0cm
Artist	Komai Genki (1747-1797)
Date Created	1747-1797
Price	¥200,000（excluding tax）

「こち吹かばにほひおこせよ梅の花あるじなしとて春をわするな」
（Kochi fukaba nihohi okoseyo ume no hana aruji nashitote haru wo wasuruna）　

　This is a poem that Michizane composed looking up at the plum tree in his residence when he was transferred to Dazaifu. This work depicts that very scene.
　The expression on Michizane’s face as he looks up at the plum tree, “This is the last time I will ever see you,” is so frowned upon that it seems as if he might start crying at any moment. The artist’s attention to detail can be seen in the fine, even lines used to draw the beard, eyebrows, and hair. On the other hand, the lines on the robe are strong and weak, in contrast to the lines on the face.
　The composition of the painting consists only of Michizane and a single plum branch. The small number of motifs in the painting emphasizes the indescribable loneliness and quietness of the scene.

　Komai Genki (1747-1797) was a painter active in Kyoto in the mid-Edo period. He studied painting under Maruyama Okyo and was called “Nitetsu” (two great masters) under Okyo, along with Nagasawa Rosetsu. He excelled at painting portraits with delicate brushwork.

As an antique, it may have some scratches or blemishes. We recommend that you visit our store to check the condition.
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