Antique Japanese Fan Painting – Flying Sparrows and Plum Blossoms – Meiji Period, Late 19th Century

This antique Japanese fan painting from the Meiji period features a delicate scene of flying sparrows amidst plum blossoms. The sparrows symbolize freedom, joy, and the fleeting nature of life in Japanese art. They are often seen as messengers of good fortune and represent the joys of spring and new beginnings.

The plum blossoms are traditionally associated with perseverance, hope, and the arrival of spring. In Japanese culture, plum blossoms are revered for their ability to bloom in the harsh winter months, symbolizing resilience and the beauty of renewal. Together, the sparrows and plum blossoms convey a harmonious message of the natural cycle of life, growth, and rejuvenation.

This painting is created with ink, pigments, and gold leaf on paper, enhancing the richness and vibrancy of the composition. The gold leaf adds a touch of luxury and elegance, typical of Meiji period works, while contributing a sense of light and vibrancy to the scene.

Dimensions:

• Width: 48.5 cm
• Height: 24 cm

The fan shape itself lends the artwork a sense of movement, as if the sparrows are in flight, evoking a feeling of grace and transience. This piece would be a refined addition to any collection of Meiji period artwork or Japanese nature-themed art.