Flowers and Goldfish

Sō Shizan Japanese

Not on view

The profusion of flowers hanging from a kaido tree, ebulliently filling the frame, suggests fecundity. The auspicious and opulent qualities of this painting are enhanced by such exotic motifs as the basket, the finely crafted table, and the delicate glass fishbowl. The meticulous details and realistic coloring are in line with the decorative realism taught by Sō Shizan’s father, Sō Shiseki, who trained with the Chinese painter Song Ziyuan. His style is also influenced by the work of Shen Nanpin.

Flowers and Goldfish, Sō Shizan (Japanese, 1733–1805), Hanging scroll; ink and color on silk, Japan

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