ICHIMURA HOCHO: A SUPERB MARUYAMA SCHOOL SIX-PANEL ‘TIGER AND PINE’ SCREEN (BYOBU)

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ICHIMURA HOCHO: A SUPERB MARUYAMA SCHOOL SIX-PANEL ‘TIGER AND PINE’ SCREEN (BYOBU) By Ichimura Hocho (1781-1822), signed Hocho and sealed Seiryo no in Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Ink, watercolors, and gold paint on paper. Mounted on six wood panels. Finely painted to depict a prowling tiger advancing across the composition, its mouth opened in a snarl and head turned back in a moment of heightened alertness. The fur is articulated with lively, varied brushwork, lending the animal a palpable sense of movement and vitality. The figure is set against a softly glowing ground, allowing the tiger to dominate the pictorial space. Above, the branches of a pine tree emerge only partially into view, their presence understated and subtly framing the scene rather than competing with the central motif. This restrained use of landscape elements enhances the dramatic isolation and tension of the tiger. SIZE 171.5 x 361 cm In Japanese visual culture, the tiger is a potent symbol of strength, courage, and protection. Although not native to Japan, its image was transmitted from China through cultural exchange and the spread of Buddhism, and was often rendered based on imported paintings and textual descriptions. This resulted in stylized yet highly expressive interpretations, such as the present example, where the emphasis lies on spirit and presence rather than strict anatomical accuracy. Ichimura Hocho (1781–1822) was a painter active in Kyoto and a pupil of the renowned Kawamura Bunpo, from whom he inherited the character “Ho” in his name. Working within the Shijo tradition, Hocho combined the school’s emphasis on natural observation with a decorative sensibility suited to large-scale compositions such as screens. His works demonstrate a refined command of brushwork and composition, and he was particularly adept at depicting animals and birds with vitality and expressive force. Museum comparison: For another work by the artist see a hanging scroll painting of a peacock in the Kyoto National Museum, photo no. 72275-31696.

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