An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Dragon [right of a pair of Tiger and Dragon]1868
Artist: Mori Ippo
Japanese, 1798 - 1871
head of dragon with head at top; swirl leading down R edge; gold, floral, brocade border
40 3/4 x 16 3/4 in. (103.51 x 42.55 cm) (image)
69 1/4 x 23 1/4 in. (175.9 x 59.06 cm) (overall, without roller)
Hanging scroll, right of a pair; ink on silk
hanging scroll, one of a pair
Japan
19th century
Gift of Harriet and Ed Spencer
In the gentle embrace of an art gallery, two scrolls hang side by side, whispering tales of a profound balance between opposing forces—a dance of the mighty dragon and the regal tiger. These creatures, revered in East Asian culture, are more than mere subjects on cloth; they embody a cosmic harmony, each representing the forces of nature itself.
In the timeworn pages of the Yijing, also known as the Book of Changes, the dragon is spoken of as a master of the clouds, wielding the power of the heavens, while the tiger is lauded for its dominion over the winds that rustle across the earth. Together, they create a tableau that encompasses the entirety of the universe—a duo celebrated for their auspicious nature, bringing fortune and protection to those who honor them.
As your eyes travel along the two scrolls, you'll find the tiger poised next to a delicate sprig of bamboo, its fierce spirit seemingly softened by the gentle touch of green. The tiger’s gaze, both fierce and contemplative, speaks of strength rooted in a serene presence. Around it, diagonal streaks of ink wash flow, mimicking the invisible currents of wind—a whisper that dances through the air, capturing the essence of movement and freedom.
But it is the dragon that truly captures the imagination. It emerges cautiously from the depths of swirling ink, a ghostly figure shrouded in the soft embrace of cloud. Its head, with scales that glimmer like jewels in the light, offers a fleeting glimpse before it retreats back into the ethereal realm. This moment of visibility, a rare gift, invites the viewer to ponder the mysteries of existence, the connection between the tangible and the ethereal.
In this serene setting, the dragon and tiger together remind us of the delicate equilibrium of our world—a tranquil yet dynamic relationship that mirrors the push and pull of life itself. Their story, a harmonious blend of strength and grace, invites us to contemplate our own journeys, finding peace in the powerful forces that shape our reality.
About the artist
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