Brown-Eared Bulbul (Hiyodori) on a Branch of Plum 1525 - 1575

This hanging scroll, portraying a brown-eared bulbul on a plum branch, was made by Kano Shōei in 16th-century Japan, using ink and color on silk. The silk support itself, with its subtle texture, lends a warm tone to the painting. The artist skillfully manipulated ink washes to define the bulbul's form and the delicate blossoms, juxtaposing the bird’s mottled feathers with the smooth, pale petals. The way the artist built up the image reflects the influence of Zen Buddhism, with its emphasis on spontaneity and directness. Kano Shōei’s meticulous brushstrokes also speak to a long tradition of craftsmanship and artistic training. This artwork invites us to consider the value of handmade images in a world increasingly dominated by mass production. The labor and skill evident in this painting remind us of the importance of valuing both artistic skill and the natural world.