Image of Daikoku and the Artist's Seals 1754 - 1799

Nagasawa Rosetsu created this ink on paper scroll, "Image of Daikoku and the Artist's Seals," now at the Art Institute of Chicago, using a masterful interplay of ink washes and precise lines. The composition is dominated by a softly rendered Daikoku, the god of wealth, seated above playful mice, which are rendered with delicate strokes and washes of grey. The arrangement creates a dynamic yet harmonious balance. Rosetsu's interest in asymmetry is evident as the calligraphy at the upper left balances Daikoku to the right, challenging traditional notions of symmetry in Japanese art. The artist strategically places his seals near the base, integrating the formal declarations of authorship. This arrangement invites us to consider the symbolic meaning. The light washes and visible brushwork suggest a spontaneity and the acceptance of imperfection, reflecting Zen aesthetics. In this work, Rosetsu destabilizes the fixed representation of deities. The painting should be regarded as an opportunity for continuous observation and contemplation.