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Pair of Six Panel Screens: Whale Hunting and Harvesting

This exceptional pair of six-panel screens, attributed to the Tosa School and dating to the 17th century, presents a rarely depicted subject in Japanese art: whale hunting and harvesting. The visible details reveal dynamic scenes of traditional Japanese whaling boats navigating choppy seas, with numerous figures engaged in the arduous process of harpooning and subduing the large marine mammals. The dramatic waves and the scale of the whales against the smaller human figures create a sense of the immense power of nature and the daring of the hunters. The screens are not merely decorative but serve as a valuable visual record of a crucial aspect of Japan's historical economy and culture. The rarity of whale hunting as a theme in Japanese screens lends significant historical and artistic importance to these works. A notable earlier example by Tosa Mitsunori (1583-1638) is the only other known example of this subject in the collection of the Osaka Museum of History. These 17th-century screens offer a detailed glimpse into the organized whaling practices of the time, including the techniques employed and the sheer effort involved. The meticulous detail in the depiction of the hunt and the subsequent harvesting underscores the profound connection between the Japanese people and the sea. The artistry of the Tosa School is evident in the intricate details of the figures, the stylized rendering of the waves, and the overall composition that guides the viewer's eye across the panels. From the initial pursuit to the eventual capture, these screens tell a compelling story, inviting contemplation on the relationship between man and nature, and the historical ingenuity of a society reliant on the sea. Each screen measures approximately 46 inches high by 117-120 inches wide (117.5 \times 305.4 cm), showcasing the mastery of ink and color on paper.