Feather 1807 - 1891

Shibata Zeshin created this image of a ‘Feather’ using ink on paper, and in traditional scroll format, during the late Edo or early Meiji period in Japan. Zeshin lived during a time of immense social and political change as Japan opened to the West after a long period of isolation. The simple yet elegant depiction of a single feather reflects the Japanese aesthetic of *wabi-sabi*, which values imperfection, simplicity, and impermanence. Zeshin, trained in both traditional painting and lacquer techniques, was deeply invested in preserving Japanese artistic traditions while incorporating new influences. This artwork serves as a quiet expression of cultural identity and personal reflection. The choice of a feather as a subject may also allude to themes of lightness, freedom, and the transient nature of life, inviting viewers to contemplate their own place within the larger world. Ultimately, the scroll encapsulates a moment of serene contemplation amidst a rapidly changing world, reminding us of the enduring power of art to connect with our innermost selves.