Matsumi Kanemitsu
Puppet Dream
1951
Scroll
Matsumi Kanemitsu
Puppet Dream
1951
Physical Qualities
Pen and brush and black ink and wash on paper, Sheet: 220 × 152 mm. (8 11/16 × 6 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of J. Blankfard Martenet
Object Number
1957.216.3
Patterned lines and tonal washes of ink form the two eccentric figures floating over a rocky landscape in this mysteriously titled image. This atmospheric drawing is one of the few identifiable works to have been part of Kanemitsu’s first solo exhibition at the Baltimore Museum of Art in 1954. Writing an introduction to that exhibition, donor J. Blankfard Martenet summarized Kanemitsu’s artistry: “Intensity of feeling, intelligent observation, inventive originality and subtlety of expression give life to his work. Receptivity, discernment, and delicacy are most apparent in his drawings, as are his ability to reveal (through a highly personal use of distortion and line values and shadings) fresh and new aspects of ordinary things. His understanding of color and composition seem inborn. Imagination crowns his talent.”
Matsumi Kanemitsu: Figure and Fantasy
Inscribed: Recto: upper left, in black ink: "M Kanemitsu / 1953"; Verso: none
Markings: None
