River Gorge in Autumn

1920's

Shunsui's training under Yamamoto Shunkyo (1871-1936) included lessons in mountaineering. Shunkyo suggested journeys to remote mountain areas to sketch wildlife. Both the subject matter and painting technique of Shunsui's painting reflect Shunkyo's teachings. The angular, fractured quality of the gorge's rocks-their massiveness contrasted with the minuscule boats tethered at the river's edge-was a signature feature in both artists' work. Shunsui, whose name means "spring green," paid special tribute to his teacher in his use of color, with the turquoise of the water and vibrant yellow-green of the mountain grasses lending a fantastic edge to a closely observed natural setting.

Ink and light color on silk

82 1/8 x 14 1/8 in. (208.6 x 35.9cm)

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

2010.41.58

Photo: Eduardo Calderon

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. 192, illus. 53.

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