Ogata Kōrin

Ogata Kōrin, born in the year sixteen fifty-eight, was a distinguished figure in the world of Japanese art, celebrated for his contributions as a painter, xylographer, and landscape illustrator. A prominent member of the Rinpa School, Kōrin's artistic prowess extended beyond painting to include lacquerware and textile design, showcasing his versatility and creativity.

Among his most renowned works are the byōbu folding screens, particularly the exquisite pieces titled Irises and Red and White Plum Blossoms, both of which have been designated as National Treasures. His collaboration with his brother, Kenzan, who lived from sixteen sixty-three to seventeen forty-three, resulted in remarkable paintings on ceramics and lacquerware that further enriched the artistic landscape of the time.

Kōrin played a pivotal role in the revival and consolidation of the Rinpa school, which had originally been founded by Hon'ami Kōetsu and Tawaraya Sōtatsu. The term 'Rinpa,' which emerged during the Meiji period, translates to 'school of [Kō]rin,' underscoring his significant influence on the movement. His legacy continued to inspire artists, notably Sakai Hōitsu, who not only replicated many of Kōrin's works but also organized the first exhibition of his paintings a century after his passing.