Cat and Butterfly among Peonies c. 1732

Shin Sen painted 'Cat and Butterfly among Peonies' using ink and color on silk. These natural materials were not only the established language of painting at the time, but carried historical weight and cultural significance. Note the texture of the silk, its absorbency dictating the flow and spread of the ink, demanding precision and control from the artist. The colors, derived from mineral and plant sources, were carefully chosen and applied in layers. This delicate process allowed for subtle gradations and luminous effects, integral to capturing the vitality of the cat, butterfly, and peonies. Consider the labor involved in preparing the silk, grinding the inks, and mixing the colors, all part of the rich tradition in which Shin Sen was working. What emerges is not just an image, but a testament to the artist's skill, and the enduring value placed on craftsmanship. By understanding these aspects of its making, we deepen our appreciation for the artwork.