Title: A Collection of Seven Letters Penned by Edo Artist Tsubaki Chinzan, Circa 1820-1854. Calligraphy by a Noted Nanga Arist
Author: Attributed to Tsubaki Chinzan
Condition: Good
A Late Edo Period, early to mid 19th century collection of seven letters, attributed to the Edo Period artist Tsubaki Chinzan (1801-1854), laid down into scroll format. The contents of the letters have not been identified, though they certainly highlight Chinzan calligraphy skills. In comparing to Item B-2516 at the Tokyo National Museum, being another collection of letters, there do appear to be some positive matches with the calligraphy, though our letters have been somewhat less cared for.
Born with the given name Tasuku, he was a Japanese painter in the Nanga style, expertly trained in the art style of the Southern School of Chinese Painting. Born in the Koishikawa district of Edo, he was the son of a samurai who was a retainer of the Shogunate and served as head of the Spear Corps. His father died when he was seven and, following the hereditary system, he was trained in martial arts and horsemanship. Art, however, called to him more than the martial systems did, and to supplement his income, he began studying painting, first learning under Kaneko Kinryō, then Tani Bunchō, and at the age of 17, even Watanabe Kazan, becoming a favored student. He painted portraits of many of his associates in the Japanese art world, which show some European influence, while his other works, mostly flowers and birds, are firmly grounded in traditional styles.
He lived a simple life free of temptation, refraining from alcohol, smoking and, until he was married, female companionship. He also slept little, devoting his time to his craft. He also wrote haikus and waka poetry, practiced the tea ceremony and played the shō. He passed away at the age of 53.
Seven letters bound into handscroll format, roughly 17.5 x 330 cm
These letters are in good shape, with some rubbing and wear to the letters and backing paper. There are worm tracks throughout.