Portrait of Toyotomi Hideyoshi

ArtistInscribed by Saisho Jotai (Japanese, 1548 - 1607)

Place of OriginJapan

Date1599

PeriodMomoyama period (1573-1615)

CultureJapanese

MaterialsInk and colors on silk

DimensionsH. 34 3/8 in x W. 14 7/8 in, H. 90.7 cm x W. 37.8 cm (image); H. 70 3/4 in x W. 20 1/2 in, H. 181.1 cm x W. 52.0 cm (overall)

Credit LineGift and Purchase from the Harry G.C. Packard Collection Charitable Trust in honor of Dr. Shujiro Shimada; The Avery Brundage Collection

Object number1991.61

DepartmentJapanese Art

ClassificationsPainting

On View

Not on view

InscribedThe absolute hero of this generation exceeded all men of his time. His graciousness extended to all people. He performed diplomatic feats with Korea and China. At his death, by the emperor’s order, he was venerated as the deity of the Hōkoku (also known as Toyokuni). The venerable Yakuin Zensō commissioned this painting. Here Hōkoku Myōjin is dignified in appearance, causing us to look up to him with reverence. Perhaps because I received special favour from him during his lifetime, I was asked to write a line of inscription on this painting. As I could not keep silent, I wrote this and respectfully dedicate it to him. The 18th day of the fourth month of 1599 Reverently inscribed by Rokuon Jōtai

MarkingsJōtai (Shotai)