Moon and Stars

late 1920s

Japanese, 1879 - 1936

This painting is a testimony to Keisen's daring imagination and penchant for the unusual. Reminiscent of the effect of the moon lighting up a cloud-raked starry sky, the artist made a bold two-dimensional pattern by playing diagonal swathes of gold and blue against the off-white of the silk. The synthesis of a scientific interest in astronomy with traditional painting techniques, this startling skyscape is unique in Japanese painting.

Ink, dull gold and colors on silk

85 9/16 x 20 7/8 in. (217.3 x 53 cm)

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

2010.41.41

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. 182, illus. 49.

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