Silkies 1747 - 1806

Mori Sosen’s *Silkies* (1747 - 1806) depicts six chickens of various colors and sizes, painted in meticulous detail on a gold background. This hanging scroll, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, demonstrates Sosen’s masterful use of ink and color to capture the delicate plumage and expressive postures of these birds. Sosen, known for his realistic depictions of animals, was a leading figure in the *Kano* school of Japanese painting during the Edo period. *Silkies* showcases Sosen's skill in depicting the beauty of the natural world, showcasing his admiration for the elegant simplicity of everyday life.