Tsuda Seifū (1880–1978) 
Philosopher’s Path in Spring 
Japan, dated 1928 
Hanging scroll; ink and color on silk 
Gift of Terry Welch, 2021 (2021-03-041)

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The Philosopher’s Path, a walkway along a canal in Kyoto, became famous due to its association with the renowned philosopher Nishida Kitarō (1870–1945). The most influential Japanese thinker of the modern period, Nishida was a professor at Kyoto University, and meditated as he walked to his classes along this canal. Nishida retired the year before Seifū made this painting, and the artist undoubtedly intended it as a tribute. The path begins at Wakaōji Shrine (the name of which is inscribed on the stone in the lower left) and continues to the Silver Pavilion; the Higashiyama range is visible in the distance. The path is famous for its cherry blossoms, which Seifū naturally includes here. 
 
Seifū had a diverse background that included flower arrangement, textile design, Japanese- and Western-style painting, and even sculpture. After studying in Paris from 1907–1909, he opened a private Western-painting school in Kyoto, and among his students was the famous novelist Natsume Sōseki (1867–1916). Seifū became involved with the proletarian movement, and the controversial subjects of his paintings in the 1930s, critical of the government and police brutality, resulted in his arrest in 1933.