Kakemono Two Nightingales in the Branches

On two different branches of a densely leaved tree, two small birds have settled, their heads turned upward attentively. The loosely brushed leaves and branches form a dense, atmospheric frame from which the finely rendered plumage details of the birds stand out clearly. Such bird-and-flower depictions (Kachō-ga) are among the oldest and most popular genres of Japanese painting and celebrate the close bond between man and nature in its seasonal variety. The calm, introspective posture of the two birds lends the scene a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.

Painted on paper and fitted with a Jikusaki made of wood, this hand-painted unique work from the Shôwa period is a fine homage to classical Japanese nature painting and, with its calm composition, brings a contemplative note to any room.