Moon and Autumn Grasses - Tawaraya Sōtatsu

A six-panel folding screen featuring a dark crescent moon and delicate autumn grasses against a gold-leaf background, created by Tawaraya Sōtatsu.

This work is a six-panel folding screen attributed to Tawaraya Sōtatsu, a founder of the Rinpa school. The composition features a large, dark crescent moon positioned in the upper left, set against a vast expanse of gold leaf. Below, delicate clusters of autumn grasses and flowers are scattered across the surface, appearing to float in the gilded space. The artist employs a technique known as tarashikomi, where wet ink or pigment is dropped into still-wet areas to create soft, mottled effects. This method allows for subtle variations in tone, particularly within the foliage.

The screen demonstrates the Rinpa aesthetic, which prioritises decorative beauty and the use of precious materials. The gold leaf provides a reflective surface that changes with the ambient light, creating a sense of depth despite the flat application of the motifs. The arrangement of the plants is asymmetrical, guiding the viewer's eye across the panels while maintaining a sense of balance. The contrast between the dark, solid form of the moon and the light, airy depiction of the grasses creates a tension between the celestial and the terrestrial.

Sōtatsu was active in Kyoto during the early Edo period. His work often drew inspiration from classical Japanese literature and nature. This screen reflects the period's interest in seasonal themes, specifically the transition into autumn. The choice of plants, including bush clover and bellflowers, serves as a visual shorthand for the season. The screen is designed to be viewed in a domestic interior, where the gold would catch the light from candles or lanterns, animating the scene. The lack of a defined ground line or horizon forces the viewer to focus on the individual elements, which are rendered with precision and restraint.