Tsubaki Chinzan’s 1841 sketchbooks

Tsubaki Chinzan (originally Tasuku) belonged to the samurai class, where training in both martial and artistic disciplines was expected; although educated as a warrior, it was his achievements in the fine arts that secured his enduring legacy. As a painter his style reflected a growing interest in Chinese art movements and followed the Japanese Nanga style. Known for his refined works and keen eye for natural detail, today his works are held in major collections worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the British Museum. 

花卉蔬果寫生 Kaki yasai to kajitsu shasei (EA 6224 6) is a set of Chinzan's unpublished manuscripts bring the artistry of 19th-century Japan to life. Likely painted in 1841, the two volumes contain over 500 brush and ink drawings, many with soft colour washes that remain incredibly fresh despite their age.

These sketchbooks are not only visually striking but they are also a valuable resource for research into Japanese natural history illustration, artistic training, and the role of sketching in 19th century practice.

They also help us understand how, even during a time when Japan's borders were closed (under the Tokugawa Shogunate), information and culture still traversed borders. European and Chinese artistic influences can be seen in these notebooks, as well as the depiction of birds that are not native to Japan. 

Chinzan's work stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of brush, ink, and paper; these works remain vivid even after being created nearly one and half centuries ago.

Call Number: EA 6224 6