Heron 1617 - 1691

"Heron" is a hanging scroll by Tosa Mitsuoki, a leading figure in the Tosa school of Japanese painting. The work depicts a white heron in flight, its wings outstretched, as it descends towards the water. The delicate brushstrokes and subtle use of color convey a sense of movement and grace. The painting showcases Mitsuoki’s mastery of the Tosa school's signature style, which emphasized realistic depictions of nature, with particular attention to the details of birds and flowers. This captivating scroll, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the beauty and artistry of Japanese painting in the Edo period.