Roosters, Chicks, and Morning Glories, Watanabe Shōtei

Here is yet another projection of human qualities upon animals: the proud roosters approach us as equals, and the presumed hen and baby chicks huddle under their protection. The theme of cocks and morning glories is a traditional one, a reminder that the lover must withdraw from the chambers of his loved one at dawn, that bliss cannot be maintained forever. Date: between circa 1890 and circa 1900 (Meiji). Place of creation: Tokyo, Japan. Dimensions: Painting height: 124.3 cm (48.9 in); width: 48.8 cm (19.2 in); Mounting height: 224.1 cm (88.2 in); width: 62.8 cm (24.7 in). Medium: ink and color on silk. Collection: Walters Art Museum. Watanabe Seitei - Roosters, Chicks, and Morning Glories - Walters 35132