Silver Pheasant (Hakkan) c. 1730

Nishimura Shigenaga created "Silver Pheasant" as a woodblock print, a medium that lends itself to clean lines and flat planes of color. The composition is dominated by the pheasant itself, perched on a branch laden with peaches. Notice how Shigenaga uses color to differentiate the elements. The peaches are rendered in soft yellows and pinks, while the pheasant boasts a more vibrant palette of red, black, and yellow. This contrast draws the eye to the bird, making it the focal point. The lines are precise, defining the shapes of the leaves, feathers, and fruit with clarity. This emphasis on line contributes to the overall sense of order. However, the subtle asymmetry introduces a dynamic tension, preventing the composition from feeling static. It’s this interplay between order and dynamism that makes the artwork so compelling. In essence, Shigenaga uses form and color to create a world that is both harmonious and full of life.