Frogs in Sumo Match c. early 19th century

hanging-scroll

toned paper

incomplete sketchy

japan

possibly oil pastel

hanging-scroll

underpainting

painting painterly

watercolour bleed

watercolour illustration

watercolor

warm toned green

environment sketch

Mori Shūhō’s playful “Frogs in Sumo Match” from the early 19th century depicts a humorous scene of frogs engaged in a sumo wrestling match. The painting is characteristic of the artist's style, known for its whimsical depictions of animals in human-like activities. Set against a delicate background of soft grays and browns, the frogs are portrayed with a sense of humor and detailed realism. This lighthearted, yet masterful painting is a prime example of the “Kansai” style of painting popular in Japan during this period.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

⋮

On a damp and rainy day, a bunch of frogs are enjoying themselves with sumo wrestling. While two frogs are engaged in a bout, other frogs are sitting on the left and right to watch them while they hold their big round bellies. Each frog expresses a striking individuality, creating a richly humorous impression. Personification of frogs in human activities has been used in Japan since the Heian period (794–1180).