Takeuchi Seiho’s Ink Paintings: A Tale of Learning and Innovation　Nov.1.2025[Sat]－Dec.21.2025[Sun]

This exhibition features ink paintings by Takeuchi Seiho (1864-1942), from early-period pieces shaped by studies of classical paintings to mature-period works that showcase the inimitable style he developed following his trip to Europe in 1900.

During his apprenticeship, Seiho learnt painting techniques under Kono Bairei (1844-1895). He also accompanied Bairei on surveys of ancient temple and shrine treasures. Through these, he got to witness first-hand many ancient paintings. He studied the styles of these long-revered masterpieces of Chinese painting and Muromachi-period ink painting, with the fruits of his endeavors on display in works like 《Men of Virtuous Character Viewing a Waterfall》, his copy of a classic Chinese painting. Seiho’s quest to modernize Japanese-style painting then brought him Europe to study the representational methods of the European masters. Once there, he sensed an affinity between the monochrome gradation employed in European paintings and the bokashi shading technique used in ink paintings. Thereafter, Seisho produced a wide range of ink paintings. Lines still played a central role in some, but others focused on portrayals of watersides, moonlight, rain and mist, with the bokashi technique and different shadings of ink used to depict light, air and a sense of expansive space. These ink paintings afford a glimpse into the truly innovative nature of Seiho’s art.