About
Japanese painter, scholar and statesman of the Samurai class in the 18th and 19th centuries. His work was heavily influenced by the West, combining Japanese and European art styles. He painted realistic portraits of his subjects, such as Satō Issai and the scholar Takami Senseki. In 1820, he produced the portrait, "Hanging Scroll".
Before Fame
He was born Watanabe Sadayasu in Edo - what is now Tokyo - to a poor samurai family. His artistic skill showed at a very young age. For a time, he sold artwork for pennies to avoid starvation. He served the lord of Tahara as a senior councilor and succeeded in keeping the entire domain alive during a famine.
Trivia
His dual approach to art was reflected in his life. He was both extremely loyal to his daimyō while also being enthusiastically curious about Western science and poltical ideas. Due to his resistance of the current shogunate's antiforeigner policy, he was placed under house arrest. When students planned a benefit on his behalf, his fear for their safety and the safety of his family led him to commit suicide.
Family Life
He was the child of Watanabe Sadamichi, a poor retainer of a lesser Lord. As the eldest, from childhood he was the sole supporter of his mother and many brothers and sisters. He committed suicide by seppku, a ritual known to Japan.
Associated With
On Kawara is another prominent Japanese artist.
