KOBAYASHI KOKEI

born Feb. 11, 1883, Niigata prefecture, Japan died April 3, 1957, Tokyo original name Kobayashi Shigeru artist who greatly contributed to modern Japanese painting. Orphaned early in life, Kobayashi went to Tokyo when he was 17 and studied traditional Japanese painting with Kajita Hanko (18701917). He joined the Restored Japan Academy of Art and became one of its most prominent members. He at first painted traditional subject matters, such as Taketori monogatari (1914; Tale of the Bamboo Cutter), but soon switched to contemporary scenes and still life. His works are known for their serenity and classical poise, eloquently conveying subtle moods. Among his famous works are Amida-do (1914; The Amitabha Hall), Ideyu (1918; Hot Spring), and Kami (1931; Tresses).