White-Robed Kannon 1823

Sakai Hōitsu's "White-Robed Kannon" (1823) is a stunning example of the Rinpa style, a Japanese art movement that emphasized decorative design and lavish color. This hanging scroll depicts the bodhisattva Kannon, a figure of mercy and compassion, seated on a lotus throne amidst a dramatic landscape. The intricate details of the clouds, waterfall, and rocky terrain showcase Hōitsu's mastery of brushwork and ink washes, while the vibrant colors and graceful figure of Kannon highlight the elegance and refinement of the Rinpa style.