Red Parrot on the Branch of a Tree 1890 - 1910

Ito Jakuchu made this woodblock print, “Red Parrot on the Branch of a Tree,” in Japan, sometime in the late 18th century. In this period, Japanese art was strongly shaped by its relationship to the ruling classes, as well as by the influence of imported styles and techniques, particularly from China. Jakuchu's rendering of the parrot is incredibly detailed, showing a deep understanding of natural forms. The parrot, rendered in vibrant red, stands out against the dark background, a visual code that could have symbolized wealth and exoticism, given that parrots were not native to Japan. At the time, the study of natural history was gaining popularity among intellectuals and artists alike, which explains the botanical realism of the tree branches and leaves. To truly understand Jakuchu's work, we can turn to historical records, such as artist biographies and exhibition catalogs from the time. This will reveal how artists negotiated social expectations and how they were involved in the scientific and philosophical debates that defined the Edo period. By using these resources, we will be able to reveal how artistic expression is always contingent on social and institutional conditions.