Summer and Winter Landscape

Sesson (1504?–?) was a monk and painter, whose posthumous name was Shukei. He was a member of the Satake clan, which ruled Hitachi province (present-day Ibaraki Prefecture). Sesson entered the priesthood at an early age, and after traveling through Aizu, Kamakura, Odawara, and various other places led a secluded life in Miharu (in present-day Fukushima Prefecture). He admired and was inspired by Sesshu, and studied Chinese painting extensively, eventually establishing one of the Muromachi period (1392-1573)’s most original artistic styles.
This painting is thought to be a relatively early work by Sesson. Representations of rocks and pagodas suggest the influence of Sesshu, while Sesson’s distinctive style is already evident in the exaggerations and distortions of various motifs. In his treatise Setsumon Teishi (lit. fundamental advice for students), Sesson expresses his pride at establishing his own unique style: “I have for years learned from Sesshu, but look how different our styles are now!” This work seems to attest to this proud achievement.