Rooster c. 18th century

Ito Jakuchu’s “Rooster” is an elegant image created with ink and color on paper. Jakuchu was an anomaly in the Edo period in Japan. His work stood apart from both the aristocratic art world and the more populist ukiyo-e style. Jakuchu’s family background as a wealthy merchant deeply shaped his identity as an artist. Despite his commercial roots, he was drawn to Zen Buddhism and artistic expression, leading him to pursue painting independently. This print reveals Jakuchu's unique position, as he blended the decorative style preferred by wealthy patrons with the bold individualism of Zen aesthetics. Roosters symbolize masculinity, vigilance, and courage. Here, Jakuchu uses the image of the rooster to project a sense of self-assuredness that defies traditional artistic and social boundaries. The intricate details and vibrant colors capture the rooster's physical presence while suggesting a deeper emotional or spiritual state. This allows us to consider not only what is depicted, but also the personal journey and cultural context that gave rise to such an image.