Sitting Tiger 1777

Curator: We're looking at "Sitting Tiger," a tempera and ink painting on a hanging scroll, created in 1777 by Maruyama Ōkyo. It's currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Editor: My first impression is one of curious gentleness. The tiger is depicted almost as a large, slightly goofy cat rather than a fearsome predator. Curator: Exactly. While tigers are potent symbols of strength and power in many cultures, especially in East Asia, Ōkyo has chosen to emphasize its more approachable aspects. Tigers historically protected against demons and symbolized courage, but here, that feels softened, almost domestic. Editor: I agree. Observe how Ōkyo uses the tempera to achieve a delicate rendering of the tiger’s fur. The artist uses subtle shading, almost watercolor-like, with visible brushstrokes to articulate form without sacrificing its texture and softness. It creates a palpable tension between realistic depiction and almost whimsical charm. Curator: Indeed. In Japanese art, tigers often represent worldly power, but are also closely associated with Zen Buddhism and spiritual power. There's a play between the overt symbolic associations and a grounding in tangible experience of encountering such an animal. I wonder if the context for wealthy patrons influenced Ōkyo’s decision. Editor: Perhaps. The slightly averted gaze of the tiger, away from a direct confrontation, also suggests a more internal focus, which aligns well with the idea of a contained power, more internal and considered than outwardly aggressive. And that tail curled tight… very feline! Curator: Yes! Consider the traditional belief of the tiger warding off evil, acting as a guardian. Maybe it projects the idea that true strength is often found in serenity rather than aggressive displays. Editor: Seeing how those soft curves form against that minimalist background reminds us of art's capacity to both challenge and celebrate the weight of symbol and subject. Curator: It’s been fascinating to reconsider the image's interplay between symbol and execution—I'm certainly reassessing my presumptions of the tiger's implied nature.