This work features a row of five leeks crowned with spherical blossoms. They seem to be comparing heights as they stand bolt upright, apparently unperturbed by any passing breeze. The slight differences in height and the subtle variations in shape and color lend the composition a simple beauty. This, together with the mysterious complexity of the background, serves to imbue the work with a sense of profundity. The smallest leek on the far right has had its blossom plucked off, perhaps by a mischievous child. The white object in the upper left may be a passing butterfly, though it could also be a distant pond or rock. A closer look reveals a mixture of reddish purple and green hues in the background. This hints at the presence of a leek field rolling out behind the blossoms. In this way, the viewer is captivated by the rich depths of Tokuoka Shinsen’s art.

This work was exhibited in the Sixteenth Seiryu-kai Exhibition, held at the Kenso-do Gallery in Kyobashi, Tokyo from June 16 to June 20, 1964. The Seiryu-kai was established in April 1948 to exhibit works by the greatest Japanese artists of the time, including Yasuda Yukihiko, Maeda Seison and Kobayashi Kokei from the Japan Art Institute and Kaburaki Kiyokata, Kikuchi Keigetsu and Fukuda Heihachiro from Nitten. It held a total of twenty four exhibitions up until 1973. Tokuoka Shinsen’s participation began with Bamboo Shoot at the tenth exhibition and it continued with the submission of several paintings that were subsequently regarded as his representative works, including this work as well Rock, Hydrangea, Carp, Bird, and Among the Leaves.

Tokuoka Shinsen (nihonga painter; 1896–1972)
Kyoto-born nihonga painter. His real name is Tokijiro. Graduated from the Kyoto City School of Arts. Studied under Takeuchi Seiho. First painted in a simple and realistic style, and later added decorative elements that bring in lusciousness to his works. Member of the Japan Art Academy. A Teiten jury member. Designated as a Person of Cultural Merit and received the Order of Culture.