Jurojin c. early 20th century

Tsuji Kakō made this image of Jurojin with ink and color on silk. Look at how the artist uses the fan shape as a backdrop, setting the stage for the figure. The brushstrokes are delicate, almost whispered onto the silk, creating a sense of gentle movement and flow. I’m really drawn to the limited palette here: those muted greens, browns, and creams. The paint feels transparent in places, allowing the silk to peek through, giving it a luminous quality. Then there are the details, like the tiny tree next to the gourd, or the wispy lines of Jurojin's beard. It’s like Kakō is inviting us to slow down and savor each moment. This makes me think of other artists, like Agnes Martin, who also embraced simplicity and restraint in their work. They remind us that sometimes, less really is more. That artmaking is about finding beauty in the everyday and embracing the power of suggestion.