Fishes 1890 - 1892

Seki Shūkō painted this image of fishes in ink and color on silk, in the late 19th or early 20th century. Born in the final years of the Edo period, Shūkō witnessed Japan's shift from feudalism to modernization. During the Meiji era, traditional art forms like painting were both preserved and transformed. Shūkō’s delicate brushwork captures the serene underwater world, reflecting a deep understanding of marine life. The painting invites contemplation on our relationship with the natural world. The selection of fish—flatfish, ray, and others—suggests a rich, diverse ecosystem. Shūkō’s sensitive depiction is more than just an illustration; it is a means of conveying the beauty and fragility of aquatic life. It presents an opportunity to reflect on environmental change and stewardship. The image is a window into a world both familiar and mysterious.