Cat and Goose c. 1784

This hanging scroll painting of a goose and lotus leaf was created by Maruyama Ōkyo during the Edo period in Japan. Ōkyo was known for his ability to blend Western naturalism with traditional Japanese painting techniques. Look at the goose, poised with its neck extended, diving towards the water. In this period, Japan was experiencing considerable economic and social change. As the merchant class gained prominence, there was a shift away from traditional aristocratic patronage of the arts. Ōkyo catered to this new audience by creating art that was accessible and relatable. This approach allowed him to develop an individual style, separate from the dominant Kano school. Note how Ōkyo captures a sense of immediacy, as if we’ve stumbled upon a fleeting moment in nature. Through his art, Ōkyo not only reflects the changing tastes of his time but also invites us to reflect on our place within the natural world.