Scene from the Tale of Genji: the Shell of Locust (Ch. 3) (Translation)
源氏物語画帖 空蝉 江戸時代 紙本金地着色 (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
This scene, with its diagonal composition and brilliant colors, illustrates Genji’s third visit to Lady Utsusemi, whose name translates to “Shell of Locust.” Here Genji peeks through the sliding doors to see Utsusemi playing “Go” with her stepdaughter. By omitting the roof of the house, the artist illustrates court life of 11th-century Japan by offering an insider’s view.
Rinpa School 琳派
Edo period (1615-1868)
Unsigned
None
None
Special Oriental Art Purchase Fund
"Japanese Art," VMFA Artmobile, February 1968 - May 1969
"Cheek and the Arts," Muscarelle Museum, William and Mary, Williamsburg VA, December 5, 1985 - ?
"Cheek and the Arts," Muscarelle Museum, William and Mary, Williamsburg VA, December 5, 1985 - ?
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
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