A World of Edo Art
Nagasawa Rosetsu (1754–1799)was born into a low-ranking samurai family and served feudal lords in the provinces before studying under Maruyama Ōkyo at his school in Kyoto. Rosetsu's personality and approach to painting were not compatible with the school's hierarchy and routines, and although he was a senior disciple, he soon became an independent painter who expanded upon Ōkyo's masterful innovations in using the magic of sumi ink water solubility to evoke new effects in painting. An artist of boundless energy and versatility, he was officially recognized as one of the best painters in Kyoto when his name was first listed in Who's Who in Kyoto (Heian jinbutsu shi) in 1782. He was highly versatile and is known for his playfulness, which startled and delighted his wide following among Kyoto townspeople .
