Tazaki Sōun – 田崎草雲 (1815–1898) – 山水 – Landscape (Sansui)

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Sōun was born the son of a minor samurai and first studied under Kanai Ushū, from who he first learned Nanga painting. This early influence of the Nanga style formally shaped much of Sōun’s essence as a painter, and would, many decades later, manifest itself in masterpieces like the one shown in the second-last picture on this page, which is held in the permanent collection of the Karasawayama Shrine. The Southern school could convey a lush landscape whether using monochrome sumi-e (also, suiboku-ga), or thoughtful, traditionally mixed mineral pigments of blues, greens and earth tones. His talents were then rounded to an even much higher degree through study with the legendary Tani Bunchō.

One of his greatest claims to fame had nothing to do with art. One day in 1854, he was challenged to a fight by an American boxer in Yokohama, whom he bested in combat with a body drop, -making him an instant sensation among many who had never heard of him. It was later dramatized by the famous writer Shiba Ryōtarō, and is considered by many to be the first mixed martial arts fight in Japan.

Such was the manifest power and talent of his skills, that as a teacher, he helped shape one of his greatest students, the official Imperial Household artist, Komuro Suiun, whose works are also held in museums and prestigious collections across the globe.

The Sōun Museum is on the south side of Ashikaga park. He is also held in many other collections, including the University of Chicago, the Tochigi Prefectural Museum of Fine Arts, and the Tokyo National Museum. Good, normal condition for its age. Some slight creases, small damages and stains, -but overall in fine enough condition to enjoy for centuries to come if properly cared for. -Beautiful, handmade, artisan “crushed” asymmetrical pattern washi paper comprises the mounted area around the “honshi” (main painted area).

12.75″ x 64.5″ – Comes with a sealed document of authenticity and links to 3 hours worth of relevant reading and documentary viewing. Price includes shipping worldwide! All prices in Canadian dollars.