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“The Safflower” (Suetsumuhana), from the Phantom Genji Scrolls (Maboroshi no Genji monogatari emaki), Scroll 2

Kyō-Kano School

Not on view

The story of Genji’s encounter with Suetsumuhana, the Safflower Princess, unfolds across three scrolls in the Phantom Genji set. The artist’s attention to detail is evident in the depiction of the princess’s dilapidated mansion. Moss and green plants sprout from the cypress roof and streaks of watery ink represent the dirt on the plaster. The artist also depicts the princess’s unfortunate red nose, which earlier painters avoided.

“The Safflower” (Suetsumuhana), from the Phantom Genji Scrolls (Maboroshi no Genji monogatari emaki), Scroll 2, Kyō-Kano School, Handscroll from a set of three; ink, color, and gold on paper, Japan

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“The Safflower” (Suetsumuhana), from the Phantom Genji Scrolls (Maboroshi no Genji monogatari emaki), Scroll 2, Kyō-Kano School, Handscroll from a set of three; ink, color, and gold on paper, Japan
“The Safflower” (Suetsumuhana), from the Phantom Genji Scrolls (Maboroshi no Genji monogatari emaki), Scroll 2, Kyō-Kano School, Handscroll from a set of three; ink, color, and gold on paper, Japan
“The Safflower” (Suetsumuhana), from the Phantom Genji Scrolls (Maboroshi no Genji monogatari emaki), Scroll 2, Kyō-Kano School, Handscroll from a set of three; ink, color, and gold on paper, Japan

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