Cock and Hen

Kawabata Gyokushō, a master of the Maruyama school, created "Cock and Hen" around 1889, capturing a moment of quiet dignity in these birds. This piece is one of several album leaves by the artist in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, often featuring animals or landscapes, such as "Crane Among Reeds" or "Squirrel Eating Chestnuts." Gyokushō's work frequently showcases a delicate touch and an ability to imbue natural subjects with character, a hallmark of the Maruyama school's naturalistic approach. Here, he uses minimal brushstrokes and a soft color palette to emphasize the textures of the feathers and the birds' attentive postures. The artwork reflects a period when Japanese artists like Gyokushō continued to refine traditional painting techniques while engaging with broader artistic currents of their time.