Paintings

The Ten Masters Album distills the Yuan literati’s cosmic vision into palm-sized leaves. As Huang Gongwang proclaimed, “Painting is the imprint of the mind.”

“Flower-Signal Wind” refers to the seasonal breeze that brings the message of blooming flowers. According to the traditional Chinese calendar, the period from Lesser Cold to Grain Rain comprises eight solar terms over four months. For each segment, a flower that most accurately embodies its blooming season is chosen to symbolize the “Flower-Signal Wind.

The bulls are portrayed with robust, muscular forms and a palpable vitality, evoking an impression of raw power that seems capable of overwhelming multitudes.

The painting captures a serene spring scene: willow-draped cliffs, a scholar’s boat drifting on tranquil waters, and a distant dock veiled in mist.

The paintings employ the style of courtly ladies, showcasing not only the refined charm of ancient women but also using the poetic inscriptions to extol these celebrated historical figures.

Published in 1891–1892, this 160-piece manual by Kagenen features seasonal floral studies paired with lively birds, profoundly influencing flower and bird art studies.

A seven-volume woodblock print edition from 1906, “Jingnian Painting Collection” by renowned flower and bird painter Kagenen showcases vivid subjects—from flora to fauna—and has served as a vital educational resource in Japanese art.