Returned to lender The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
“The Safflower” (Suetsumuhana), from the Phantom Genji Scrolls (Maboroshi no Genji monogatari emaki), Scroll 2
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.
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