Waves

Ogata Korin

late 17th-early 18th century

Ink, color, gold, and silver on paper

Seattle Art Museum

A six-panel folding screen depicts stylized waves with dark crests against a gold background. Small dark shapes, possibly boats or sea creatures, are scattered among the waves. A six-panel folding screen depicts stylized waves with dark crests against a gold background. Small dark shapes, possibly boats or sea creatures, are scattered among the waves. Korin renders the transitory nature of rolling waves. The amorphous sea undulates in a repetitive, calming manner. Puncturing this scenic moment are tentacle-like fingers of water appearing across the cascading white foam. Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection Object number 51.70