Woodcutters Talking in an Autumn Valley

ca. 1890

Japanese, 1852 - 1906

Representation of rural life was popular among Kyoto artists. Beisen adds a dynamic quality to this scene of woodcutters resting by a waterfall. At the top are gentle mountain slopes arranged in a zigzag composition, and in the middle a dramatic waterfall suddenly appears. The forceful water spills over angular rocks piled at the bottom. This colorful scenery reflects Beisen's own vigorous energy, which was also evident in his multifaceted career as an artist, educator, newspaper illustrator, and writer.

Ink and colors on silk

76 x 21 3/16 in. (193 x 53.8 cm)

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

2010.41.78

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. 90, illus. 11.

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

Learn more about Equity at SAM