An artwork on Galleree from Cleveland Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Horse Stableearly 1500s
This pair of screens combines images of prized horses in their stalls with vignettes of games and sport. One of the screens has a special focus on falconry, while the other depicts people playing the board games <em>go</em> and <em>shōgi</em>. Dogs and monkeys, one of which has caught the eye of a finely attired youth, heighten the appeal of the scene.
This is the earliest surviving example of the "horse stable" theme in Japanese screens.
Pair of six-panel folding screens; ink, color, and gold on paper
Painting: 146 x 349.6 cm (57 1/2 x 137 5/8 in.)
Edward L. Whittemore Fund
In a vibrant world where elegance meets leisure, a captivating pair of screens unfolds before our eyes. Each one is a portal into a lively tableau that celebrates both the grace of noble horses and the spirited joy of games.
As the first screen comes into view, it whispers tales of prized steeds, their majestic forms nestled comfortably in their stalls, exuding a dignified aura. These noble animals, like champions resting after a grand race, seem to embody the spirit of strength and beauty. Each coat glimmers, reflecting the warm golden light that spills into the scene, inviting admiration from all who gaze upon them.
But just a glance to the opposite screen reveals a world brimming with excitement—a playground of intellect and strategy. Here, the scene captures enthusiasts deeply engaged in the ancient games of **go** and **shōgi**. Their faces are alight with determination, the air thick with friendly rivalry. Pieces are meticulously placed, each move a brushstroke on the canvas of competition.
Among this electric atmosphere, falconry takes center stage in a corner of the first screen. With keen eyes and graceful wings, falcons soar above, embodying the thrill of the hunt and the bond between human and bird. Seated nearby is a finely attired youth, his gaze captured by a playful monkey, adding a lighthearted touch to the poised elegance around him.
Amid the clamor of competition sits a trio of dogs, their tails wagging in anticipation of the next game. Their joyful barks harmonize with the laughter of children, each sound weaving together the fabric of this lively depiction. The overall scene is a celebration of both nature’s beauty and human ingenuity, demonstrating not just the exquisite power of horses, but also the joy found in playful camaraderie.
As we step back, it becomes clear that these screens are more than mere decorations; they resonate with a spirit of vitality, drawing us into their thriving world of sport, companionship, and the pursuit of excellence in every form.
About the artist
Creating transformative experiences through art “for the benefit of all the people forever.”The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for the quality and breadth of its collection, which includes more than 66,500 artworks and spans 6,000 years of achievement in the arts. The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, USA 44106
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