Honda Tenjō (1867–1946)
Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove
Japan, c. 1910s–1920s
Hanging scroll; ink on paper
Gift of Terry Welch, 2021 (2021-03-101)
The Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove were a group of historical figures who lived in China during the 3rd century CE. The political climate was especially dangerous at the time, and they became known for their avoidance of government service and their pursuit instead of leisurely reclusion, writing poetry, playing music, and especially drinking alcohol together in a bamboo grove near one of their homes. They were one of the prototypes of the lofty scholar who practices self–cultivation and moral integrity instead of serving a corrupt ruler. They were celebrated in early literature, and within two centuries of their lifetimes they were already depicted in the arts.
Honda Tenjō was a key figure in the Tokyo art world during the early 20th century. He was one of the most prominent students of Kanō Hōgai (1828–1888), who played an important role in the early modernization of traditional Japanese painting. Following his teacher, Tenjō’s work has its foundation in traditional Kanō School brush techniques, such as the “axe-cut” strokes that texture the rocks and the deftly executed bamboo leaves, but these are dramatically transformed through an emphasis on contrasting light that conveys a sense of volume inspired by Western drawing.