Fish in a Whirlpool 1877 - 1897

"Fish in a Whirlpool" (1877 - 1897) is a Japanese painting by Kawanabe Kyōsai (1831 - 1889) depicting a swirling vortex of water, indicated by concentric rings, with two fish caught in its current. The swirling motion creates a dynamic composition, while the muted palette of greys and browns emphasize the depth of the water. This work is an example of Kyōsai's signature style, characterized by whimsical and humorous depictions of everyday life. This painting, currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies the artist's unique ability to capture the dynamism of nature through subtle brushstrokes and bold compositions.