Swallows by a Waterfall 1877 - 1897

"Swallows by a Waterfall" is a captivating ink painting by the renowned Japanese artist Kawanabe Kyōsai (1831–1889). This work, dating from 1877 to 1897, showcases Kyōsai's mastery of brushwork and his ability to capture the essence of nature. The painting depicts a cascading waterfall, rendered in delicate washes of ink, with three swallows perched on a rocky ledge, one in flight. The contrast between the fluidity of the water and the sharp, stylized forms of the birds creates a dynamic and expressive composition. This work, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a prime example of Kyōsai's signature style—a playful blend of realism and whimsicality that evokes the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.