Without reading its title, one might wonder what this painting depicts. Are these flower petals scattering over the water, random melting snow patterns, or harvested seeds sprinkled here and there? If these were clouds floating in blue sky, there are too many of them, and the color combination of white and red is rather unusual. However, if one keeps looking at this painting with this uncanny feeling, the unsettled air confirms that these are clouds in the sky, part of which are painted light pink so as to represent the reflection from the sun light on the clouds. Moreover, the pale pink color, instead of the scarlet sunset light, and the clear sky indicate that these are clouds in the morning. Although this is a small work depicting minute subject, it indeed greatly inspires the viewer’s imagination and heart. It is undoubtedly a rare quality piece of Fukuda Heihachiro’s late works, which reflects his unique and matured worldview.

Fukuda Heihachiro (nihonga painter; 1892–1974)
Also known as Sosen; Kyushu
Oita-born nihonga painter. Graduated from the Kyoto City School of Arts and Crafts, and later the Kyoto Municiple Special School of Painting. Active at Teiten (Ministry of Education Art Exhibition). His work develops from the early realistic and solid representation to painting of bold and simple composition and bright colors. Became a significant figure in the art world. Co-founded Rikucho-kai with Nakamura Gakuryo, Makino Torao, and others. The Japan Art Academy member. Nitten consultant. Appointed Kyoto Municiple Special School of Painting professor. Nominated an Honorary Citizen of Oita City, a Person of Cultural Merit, and received the Order of Culture.