The Sound of the Ocean

1942

Japanese, 1893 - 1952

A red sun rising over ocean swells is a symbol of Japan's mythical origins and the sun goddess Amaterasu. The rising sun became increasingly prominent as a patriotic image during the 1930s, the period of conflict that culminated in the Pacific War (1941-45). Ichiyô altered the motif's standard presentation, with the full sphere of a gold sun only faintly visible through the mist and clouds. Equally elegant are the washes of gold and green on the stylized rocks, and the heavy white pigment suggesting the spray of the crashing waves.

Ink and colors on silk

83 1/2 x 35 1/8 in. (212.1 x 89.2cm)

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

2010.41.62

Photo: Eduardo Calderon

Not currently on view

Resources

Published ReferencesMorioka, Michiyo; Berry, Paul. "Modern Masters of Kyoto: The Transformation of Japanese Painting Traditions," Seattle, WA: Seattle Art Museum, 1999, p. 241, illus. 68.

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