Palace of Immortals in an Autumn Valley

Datelate 1930s

Maker Okochi Yako Japanese, 1892 - 1957

Label TextYakô's colorful painting is in a loose, flamboyant, Japanese style of literati painting. The palace, with reddish walls and blue roofs, stands surrounded by blue-green mountains. In the foreground a vermilion bridge crosses over a lively stream amidst autumn leaves. The artist transmitted kinetic energy through the brisk lines delineating water, the ragged strokes making up the trees, and loose texture strokes on the rocks and mountains. The imagery's whimsical fantasy contrasts with the stability of the symmetrical, conservative composition.

Object number2010.41.76

Photo CreditPhoto: Eduardo Calderon

Published ReferencesMorioka, Michiyo; Berry, Paul. "Modern Masters of Kyoto: The Transformation of Japanese Painting Traditions," Seattle, WA: Seattle Art Museum, 1999, p. 245, illus. 69.

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

Dimensions58 9/16 x 28 5/8 in. (148.8 x 72.7 cm)

MediumInk and mineral colors on silk