Three Friends by a Mountain Stream

1902

Japanese, 1814-1907

The three friends mentioned in the title of this hanging scroll are the pine, bamboo, and plum. As a group, the three plants symbolize longevity and endurance for their ability to thrive in a harsh winter climate; they also serve as metaphors for the gentleman scholar, an ideal figure who pursues cultural activities as an end in themselves.

Ink and light colors on silk satin

Overall (incl. endknobs): 81 5/16 × 27 13/16 in. (206.5 × 70.7 cm)

Image (L., image): 51 3/4 × 18 3/8 in. (131.4 × 46.7 cm)

Gift of Griffith and Patricia Way, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum

2010.41.17

Not currently on view

Resources

Published ReferencesMichiyo, Morioka; Berry, Paul. "Modern Masters of Kyoto: The Transformation of Japanese Painting Traditions," Seattle, WA: Seattle Art Museum, 1999, p. 94, illus. 12.

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

Learn more about Equity at SAM