Botanical screen attributed to Kano Motonobu (1476-1559) (2/2)

This stunning paper screen, likely from the Momoyama to early Edo period, showcases an exquisite depiction of nature, including flowers, birds, and butterflies. It is attributed to the style of Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), a pivotal figure in the Kano school of painting, which significantly influenced Japanese art. Kano Motonobu was the son of Kano Masanobu, the founder of the Kano school, and was renowned for his versatility and innovation in combining the bold Masanobu style with the delicate ink painting techniques of the Shubun school. Motonobu's work often featured landscapes, screens, and sliding doors that blended ink with colorful detailing, setting the aesthetic standards for successive generations of Kano artists. Though these screens are unsigned, their style and technique are reminiscent of Motonobu's mastery, highlighting the continuity and evolving nature of Kano school contributions to Japanese art. The record of repair in 1897 by Yoshida Yotaro further attests to the historical and cultural value of these screens, preserving them as treasures of Japanese heritage. Ideal for aficionados of classical Japanese art and those appreciating historical artifacts with deep cultural significance.