Tekiseirō Pavilion

Click on the photograph for a larger image

Artist: Sesshu Toyo
Number of components: 1
Format and materials: Ink and light color on paper
Dimensions (in cm): L. 80.5, W. 32.8
Date of production: Muromachi period 15th century

A poem associated with the picture is inscribed in the blank space above the ink painting. The composition with its trees and pavilion glimpsed through clouds and mist shows the influence of Shūbun who was said to be Sesshū's teacher. However, the characteristics of Sesshu are expressed in the multiple motifs, the depth of the composition, and the depiction of the black craggy cliffs. Ryūkō Shinkei, abbot of the Rokuon-in Temple, who wrote the inscription, also conferred his analysis of Chinese characters of Sesshū, his professional name, on the artist. After leaving Kyoto, Shinkei probably relocated to Yamaguchi where he gained favor with the Ōuchi clan. According to another explanation, the inscription was written in Yamaguchi, before Sesshū crossed the sea to Ming China.

Notable Works

Tekiseirō Pavilion

SUNTORY MUSEUM of ART