Among many of Shoka’s works, curators and scholars with classic taste have been focusing on the pieces that resemble his very famous father's work. (Watanabe Kazan 1793-1841) However, recently, his real talent has been revealed little by little. This effort has been lead by sharp-eyed connoisseurs and followed by a new bleed of curators and scholars.

This painting is an excellent example of Shoka’s unique abilities. It demonstrates his natural strength, his control, and his mastery. Just observe his ability to expand the very capacities of ink on paper, executed with a deft hand and an abundance of personality. Shoka presents his own artistic stance through these blooms, and in doing so establishes his place as an artistic force in his own right.

About this Artist:

Watanabe, Shoka (1835 - 1887) was the foremost pupil of Tsubaki Chinzan (1801-1854) who was himself a pupil of Watanabe Kazan (1793-1841), Shoka's father. Shoka has long stood in the shadow of his very famous father, but recently the art world has started to recognize his talent.