Child Playing with a Blossoming Branch c. mid 17th century

This 17th-century hanging scroll depicts a child playing with a blossoming branch. The composition is simple and minimalist, with the child and branch occupying the bottom third of the scroll. The child's face is obscured, emphasizing the playfulness and innocence of childhood. This work is attributed to Tawaraya Sōtatsu, a renowned Japanese artist known for his elegant and delicate style. The soft, muted colors and subtle brushstrokes create a sense of ethereal beauty and tranquility, characteristic of Rinpa, a style Sōtatsu helped pioneer.