Parakeets among Hydrangeas and Poppies after 1770

Sō Shiseki painted *Parakeets among Hydrangeas and Poppies* in 18th century Japan using ink and color on silk. Shiseki was a leading figure in the Nanpin school of painting, which emphasized realism and naturalism, in contrast to the more stylized approaches of traditional Japanese art. The flowers and birds depicted here are more than just pretty images; they are laden with symbolic meaning. The parakeets, with their vibrant colors, might represent joy and sociability. Hydrangeas and poppies can signify gratitude and remembrance, weaving together themes of transient beauty and enduring connection. Shiseki’s work reflects a tension between Japanese artistic traditions and influences from other cultures, particularly China. By embracing a more naturalistic style, he challenged established norms and offered a fresh perspective on the natural world. Consider how the artist's pursuit of realism invites us to observe nature more closely, finding beauty in the intricate details of the flowers and birds. In a world often defined by rigid social structures, this painting suggests a space for personal expression and appreciation of the natural world.