Seven Gods of Good Fortune and Chinese Children 17th - 18th century

This vibrant six-panel screen painting of ink, color, and gold on paper was created by Kano Chikanobu, during the Edo period in Japan. It presents the Seven Gods of Good Fortune, figures syncretic to Japanese Buddhism, blended with native Shinto beliefs, and the traditions of Taoism, and Chinese folk religion. These deities, each embodying a different virtue such as wealth, wisdom, or longevity, reflect a cultural moment of religious pluralism, when foreign influences and local traditions coalesced. The gods are playfully depicted interacting with Chinese children, suggesting a broader cultural exchange and the integration of Chinese motifs into Japanese art. Against a backdrop of shimmering gold clouds, the scene evokes a sense of celebration and abundance. The emotional tone is lighthearted, even joyful, with the artist's fluid brushwork and the bright palette enhancing the festive atmosphere. Consider how Chikanobu uses this traditional subject matter to convey a sense of harmony and prosperity, reflecting both the cultural values of his time and the universal desire for a good and fortunate life.