Kiku Jidō (Chrysanthemum Boy) 1761 - 1799

Tsukioka Sessai's "Kiku Jidō (Chrysanthemum Boy)" (1761-1799) depicts a young boy, dressed in flowing robes, standing in a landscape setting. The painting is executed in ink on paper, showcasing Sessai's masterful use of brushstrokes to capture the figure's delicate form and the subtle nuances of the surrounding environment. The artwork, a hanging scroll, exemplifies the artistic style of the late Edo period in Japan and is a testament to Sessai's talent for capturing both the beauty and ethereal nature of his subjects. The use of ink and the simple background emphasize the beauty of the boy's form and the delicacy of his pose, suggesting a sense of quiet contemplation. "Kiku Jidō" is a fine example of Sessai's artistry, and the painting remains a popular work in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.