1883‐1945
Hashimoto Kansetsu was born in Hyogo Prefecture.
He was educated in Chinese classical literature from his childhood,
and learned the Japanese painting style of the Shijo school under Kataoka Koko.
Following this education, he entered Chikujo-kai, an art organization led by Takeuchi Seiho.
Kansetsu visited China many times throughout his life and as a result,
his paintings related to Chinese objects and literature was highly esteemed in the government-sponsored exhibitions.
Kansetsu’s sharp observational skills allowed him to visualize, and subsequently create, many vivid animal paintings in the Showa Period.
1941 164.0×183.0 cm（each）
On the right is a black and white spotted Borzoi, and on the left are two greyhounds.
The painting’s name in Japanese, Token, refers to imported dogs. The lustrousness of the Borzoi’s fur is reflected in the gold tinged background, and it goes well with the deep red of the tree peonies.
1941 108.1×127.5 cm
A beautiful harmony of white is woven together in this work, between the whiteness of the moonflowers floating in the twilight and the equally ivory fox resting on the ground.
It also demonstrates another wonderful harmony, that between a realism learned from the Shijo School and the grace of Kansetsu. It evokes both a clear fragrance and cool dignity.
