Rooster c. late 18th century

Sō Shiseki painted this ‘Rooster’ with ink and color on silk. Notice the exquisite balance of the composition. The vertical format is divided into thirds, with the rooster at the bottom, the tree dominating the middle, and an open space at the top, creating a sense of depth. Shiseki’s brushstrokes capture the texture and form of the rooster's feathers, the rough bark of the tree, and delicate leaves. The semiotic meaning is clear: the rooster, a symbol of vigilance and courage, stands proudly, and the tree, a metaphor for resilience, reaches upwards. The light washes of color and the subtle gradations of ink create a harmonious, almost ethereal quality. The composition is not merely descriptive; it also reflects the philosophical underpinnings of literati painting. The interplay between fullness and emptiness invites contemplation, reflecting a worldview that values harmony and balance. Shiseki masterfully employs the formal elements of line, color, and space to create a work that is both visually appealing and deeply symbolic.