Drawn by Soutatsu
Giant white elephant
Like a plump back.

The works of Tawaraya Sotatsu (year of birth and death unknown) have a soft pool-like quality that embraces the spirit of the viewer.

I realized this in Kyoto.YogeninOne of the sliding screen paintings at the museum is the "White Elephant" sliding door painting. The two huge white elephants, painted so that they extend over the entire surface of the sliding door, are full of energy and humor, with their plump, broad curves. The white pigment is applied evenly over the clean, thick lines that are reminiscent of modern manga. You will be overwhelmed for a moment by how this simple work can create such a strong presence.

The white skin of the elephant, covering the entire field of vision, reflects warmth through the grain of the cedar door. Before you know it, your gaze and attention are drawn solely to the white surface, and the curve of its back seems to expand and contract even more, and you instantly hold your breath. How many people's spirits has it absorbed? It is this mysterious confrontation that makes it clear that the mysterious Tawaraya Sotatsu was indeed here.

Paper woven to resemble the rounded back of a white elephant. I'd love to hang it on my door and enjoy the view.


Text by Rivotorto Pieces


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<References>
◇ Ryo Furuta, "Tawaraya Sotatsu: The Truth about the Founder of the Rinpa School" (Heibonsha)
◇ booklet"Yogen-in Temple and the Screen Paintings" (Yogen-in Temple)


[Notes]
・When storing, avoid high temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight.
・Since this product is made of natural materials, the texture and appearance may change depending on the environment in which it is placed. Please enjoy the changes over time.

[About the product]
-A handmade booklet explaining the work by the artist is included.
・Your artwork will be delivered in a paper carton that can be used to store it.
-The set includes a handmade paper magnetic frame by the artist.
-We also offer recommended frames selected by the artist.
If you wish,info@fragile-books.com Please contact us and we will provide you with separate information.

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Fragile Exhibition

Passage of Paper Textile
Fragments of Paper
2023.4.1 - 2023.4.30
→View the exhibition archive

Rivotorto Pieces will hold their first solo exhibition, "Passage of Paper Textile". The works are named after the two artists' ancestors whom they have admired since childhood. They feature people from all over the world, past and present, such as saints, picture book authors, and architects. Saint Francis of Assisi, Atsuko Suga, Leo Lionni and Tokujiro Kojima, Bernard of Chartres, Tintoretto, Dante, Giotto, Seiichi Shirai, Sotatsu Tawaraya, William Morris, Édouard Vuillard, Pierre Bonnard, Montaner, Michelangelo, Hermes, Diotima, Barbara Sansoni, Hergé, Hiroshi Yoshino, Rousseau, Frederick II, Simone Weil, Aldo Manuzio, Picasso, and the man from the Masdazil Cave. The messages that accompany each work, detailing encounters with each person, are also quite interesting.