Anthology of Japanese and Chinese Poems (Wakan rōeishū) with Underpainting of Arrowroot Vines 1600 - 1633

This six-panel screen by Konoe Nobuhiro, a prominent figure in the early Edo period, depicts a simple yet striking composition of arrowroot vines on a gilded background. The screen, titled "Anthology of Japanese and Chinese Poems (Wakan rōeishū) with Underpainting of Arrowroot Vines", is a visual representation of a classic literary work. The overlapping squares of text beneath the vines highlight the underpainting technique that was popular in the early Edo period, as well as the importance of literary works in Japanese culture. The artwork is a striking example of the artistic and literary sophistication of the early Edo period, showcasing a masterful blend of calligraphic skill and artistic expression.