Young Cat Sleeping Under Saxifrage

Artist Maruyama Okyo combines ink and color to paint his Young Cat Sleeping Under Saxifrage (Yukinoshita) hanging scroll. Described perfectly by its name, this artwork depicts a napping white cat with dark spots next to a saxifrage (yukinoshita) in full bloom. The plant’s flower petals delicately dangle almost out of reach of the curled up cat. In addition, being both the subject matter and focal point, the saxifrage and cat are clearly rendered in comparison to the faint background. Okyo, however, gives the same amount of care to the background as the centerpieces, despite it having a less significant role. This is specifically viewed in the ground of the painting. Similar to the cat’s strands of fur, blades of grass are carefully illustrated with individual brushstrokes. Overall, the Young Cat Sleeping Under Saxifrage (Yukinoshita) possesses a simple composition that is very befitting of its tranquil scene.
He trained under Ishida Yutei at the famous Kano School that was patronized by the shoguns. It was here that Okyo learned both traditional Chinese and Japanese methods, which he later integrated with western techniques to develop his own unique style. In spite of Japan’s isolationist policies at that time, Maruyama Okyo managed to study these western techniques, such as linear perspective and a realistic approach to representation, through Dutch prints. The concept of portraying subject matters in a realistic manner was further spurred on by the era’s enthusiasm for scientific discovery and observation. As a result of this, Okyo often sketched directly from life, rather than from imagination. He also eventually established the Maruyama School, which emphasizes painting nature from firsthand observations. Through this school, Maruyama Okyo was able to influence other famous artists like Matsumura Goshun and Nagasawa