Wang Xizhi

Dateca. 1915

Maker Tomita Keisen Japanese, 1879 - 1936

Label TextKeisen had an independent and unconventional personality, which was reflected both in his practice of Zen and his fondness for drinking and wild nightlife. In painting he was capable of creating imaginative, unexpected treatments of traditional themes. Wang Xizhi (303-61), perhaps the most famous of all Chinese calligraphers, was said to have gained inspiration for his elegant cursive style while gazing at wild geese swimming in a stream. Keisen refers to this in a humorous way. Seated at his desk, the revered calligrapher seems to be searching for inspiration, while domesticated geese awkwardly waddle past.

Object number2010.41.42

Photo CreditPhoto: Eduardo Calderon

Published ReferencesMichiyo, Morioka; Berry, Paul. "Modern Masters of Kyoto: The Transformation of Japanese Painting Traditions," Seattle, WA: Seattle Art Museum, 1999, p. 178, illus. 46.

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

Dimensions84 7/8 x 22 1/8 in. (215.6 x 56.2 cm) including roller knobs

MediumInk and colors on silk