A Late Landscape by Sesshu
The Landscape (Ink and Light Color on Paper; by Sesshu) (紙本墨画淡彩山水図〈雪舟筆〉) is a Muromachi-period landscape by Sesshu, location not disclosed (private collection), which in 1953 was designated a National Treasure.
The Agency for Cultural Affairs records one hanging scroll in ink and light colour on paper.
Kurashiki City lists it among the cultural properties in the city and describes it as a late work by Sesshu, Zen monk and ink painter of the Muromachi period.
The Painting
According to Kurashiki City, two pines standing on a rock form the centre, with intricately crossing rocks and paths in front and a broad lake and pavilions behind.
The ink strokes on the nearby mountains and rocks convey the painter's old age.
What to Look For
Kurashiki City notes that while it follows the vertical compositions of his teacher Shubun, the clear rendering of scenery and objects layered one upon another is characteristic of Sesshu.
Notice the two central pines and the rocks, lake and pavilions layered before and behind them.
Visiting the Landscape (Ink and Light Color on Paper; by Sesshu)
It is privately owned and its location is not disclosed; no official information on viewing could be found.
Q&A
- When was it designated a National Treasure?
- On 14 November 1953.
- What does it show?
- Two pines on a rock, with rocks, paths, a lake and pavilions.
- When was it painted?
- Late in Sesshu's life, according to Kurashiki City.
- What is distinctive about the composition?
- Clearly layered scenery, characteristic of Sesshu.
- Where is it?
- Privately owned; its location is not disclosed.
Basic Information
| Name | Landscape (Ink and Light Color on Paper; by Sesshu) (紙本墨画淡彩山水図〈雪舟筆〉) |
|---|---|
| Location | Location not disclosed (private collection) |
| Designation | National Treasure (painting) |
| Year Designated | Designated 1953/11/14 (Showa 28) |
| Quantity | 1 hanging scroll |
| Dimensions | Not recorded in the Agency for Cultural Affairs database |
| Owner | Private owner |
| Public Access | Viewing information not found |
References
- Agency for Cultural Affairs Database: Landscape by Sesshu (Japanese)
- https://kunishitei.bunka.go.jp/bsys/maindetails/201/99
- Kurashiki City: Landscape by Sesshu (Japanese)
- https://www.city.kurashiki.okayama.jp/5421.htm
Last verified: 2026.09.30