Cranes
The sublime simplicity of the supple necks and luxuriant feathers of this group of cranes is complemented by the tangle of angular legs at ground level. A patch of water bridges the gap between the two screens, compelling unification in the mind’s eye. As the birds call to and gaze at each other in the shallow pictorial space, their body language echoes the distinctive coiled ripples inked on the azurite water. Although iconic in its own right, Kiitsu’s painting also self-consciously extends an emblem of the School of Kōrin by creatively reprising a crane painting by his master, Sakai Hōitsu (1761–1828). Hōitsu’s painting was itself a reworking of a magnificent pair of crane screens by Ogata Kōrin (1658–1716).
Questions & Answers
Where can I buy a print of "Cranes" by Suzuki Kiitsu?
A print of "Cranes" by Suzuki Kiitsu can be ordered directly on its Fine Art Print page: a fine art print on cotton canvas or archival canvas paper.
Are the colors of "Cranes" by Suzuki Kiitsu saturated or muted?
"Cranes" by Suzuki Kiitsu is recorded with a clear color presence saturation.
Can I see an X-ray view of "Cranes" by Suzuki Kiitsu?
The X-Ray view of "Cranes" by Suzuki Kiitsu is on the artwork's X-Ray page: an interactive examination of the image through eleven optical layers.
Suzuki Kiitsu (1796 – 1858)
Suzuki Kiitsu (1796-1858) was a prominent Rinpa painter known for his stunning folding screens & nature scenes. Reinterpreted works showcase his skill & influence.
Harvard Art Museums (Cambridge, United States of America)
Explore world-class art at Harvard Art Museums! Featuring masterpieces from Renaissance paintings to Asian & modern works within Renzo Piano's stunning building—a must-see Cambridge destination.
About this artwork
- Title: Cranes
- Artist: Suzuki Kiitsu
- Year: 1820
- Format: Panoramic
- Copyright status: Public domain
- Where to see it: Harvard Art Museums
- Main color: Driftwood
- Color hue: Ochre to Sepia