Hollyhocks [left of a pair of Plum Trees and Hollyhocks] c. 18th century

Ogata Kenzan created this section of a pair of folding screens, using ink and color on gold-leafed paper, sometime in the early 18th century. Kenzan came from a distinguished Kyoto family, and his work reflects the cultural vibrancy of the Edo period. These Hollyhocks, rendered in a stylized, almost abstract manner, rise against a shimmering gold background. The choice of hollyhocks is interesting as it moves away from traditional high-status flowers. The gold background would have reflected light around the room, creating an immersive environment. Screens like this were not just decorative; they were integral to the experience of domestic space, shaping social interactions. Kenzan’s work blurs the lines between craft and art. Ultimately, this screen invites us to consider how beauty and artistry intersect with the everyday, and how this intersection shapes our perceptions and experiences.