Cypress Trees, National Treasure painting at Tokyo National Museum, Japan.
This painting depicts a large cypress tree spread across two four-panel folding screens. The tree stands against gold-leafed clouds and dark blue water, created with bold brushwork and rich colors.
Created in 1590 by Kano Eitoku, the work originally decorated sliding doors in the Katsura-no-miya residence during the Azuchi-Momoyama period. It later became a National Treasure when transferred to state ownership.
The cypress tree held special meaning in Japan as a wood used for temples and imperial buildings. The painting shows this significance through its grand, commanding portrayal of the tree.
The painting is displayed at the Tokyo National Museum in its own dedicated viewing space. Plan enough time to take in the scale and details of the work from various distances and angles.
The work underwent extensive restoration work that resulted in its division into two main panels. This process took years and subtly changed how the painting is experienced today.
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