God of Longevity (Jurōjin) by Kano Tsunenobu

God of Longevity (Jurōjin) 18th-19th century

color-on-silk, hanging-scroll, ink

toned paper

water colours

color-on-silk

japan

possibly oil pastel

hanging-scroll

ink

coloured pencil

coffee painting

underpainting

ink colored

watercolour bleed

watercolour illustration

watercolor

This 18th-19th century painting by Kano Tsunenobu, titled "God of Longevity (Jurōjin)", depicts the popular figure of Jurōjin, one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology. Jurōjin is often depicted with a long white beard, a staff, and a gourd, all of which are symbols of longevity and good fortune. Here, the figure is seated on a deer, another symbol of good luck and long life, and is surrounded by auspicious clouds. The painting, currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, showcases Tsunenobu's mastery of ink and wash techniques, creating a harmonious and serene composition.