Bear and Crabs 1807 - 1868

"Bear and Crabs" is a small ink painting on paper by the renowned Japanese artist Shibata Zeshin, who was a master of the Rinpa style. This painting depicts a bear with its claws outstretched as two crabs scuttle away. The delicate brushstrokes and use of muted colors are characteristic of Zeshin's work, which often features animal subjects. The painting is a fine example of Japanese art from the 19th century and is currently in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.