Hawk c. 19th century

"Hawk" is a classic example of the meticulous detail and delicate brushwork characteristic of Tosa Mitsuoki's work. This 19th-century painting, housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, showcases a hawk perched on a branch, its sharp gaze and powerful talons captured in a lifelike manner. The artist's use of subtle shades of gray and brown creates a sense of depth and realism. This work, executed on a hanging scroll format typical of Japanese art, reflects the artist's mastery of the Tosa school, known for its refined and elegant portrayals of birds and animals.