Wada Eisaku

Place: Tarumi

Born: 1874

Death: 1959

Biography:

Wada Eisaku, a Japanese painter, was a prominent figure in the yōga (Western-style) scene during the late Meiji, Taishō, and Shōwa eras. Born on December 23, 1874, in Tarumi, Japan, Wada's artistic career spanned several decades, earning him numerous accolades, including membership in the Japan Art Academy, Imperial Household Artist, and recipient of the Order of the Sacred Treasure and Order of Culture.

Early Life and Training

Wada's introduction to Western-style painting began under the tutelage of Uesugi Kumatsu. He later studied at the Daikōkan (大幸館) painting school, alongside fellow painter Miyake Kokki, and then at Harada Naojirō's Shōbikan (鍾美館). Wada's work was first exhibited in 1892, and he continued to hone his skills under various instructors, including Kuroda Seiki and Kume Keiichirō. In 1896, Wada became involved with the Hakuba-kai (White Horse Society), submitting nineteen pieces for their first exhibition.

European Influence and Career

In 1899, Wada traveled to Berlin, where he assisted Adolf Fischer in cataloging his collection of Japanese art. He later moved to Paris, studying under Raphaël Collin at the Académie Colarossi. During this period, Wada's work was exhibited at the Grand Palais and the Salon organized by the Société des Artistes Français. His Thoughts of Home (Portrait of a Japanese Lady) showcased his ability to blend Western techniques with traditional Japanese themes. Key Works and Exhibitions * Early Summer Beside the Sea (1895) - awarded a "Virtuosity Prize" at the Fourth National Industrial Exhibition * Evening at the Ferry Crossing (1897) - graduation piece, exhibited at the Exposition Universelle in 1900 * Kodama (1903) - exhibited at the Fifth National Industrial Exhibition Wada's work can be found in various museums, including the National Museums Liverpool and the Artizon Museum. For more information on Wada Eisaku and his contemporaries, visit [https://Wikioo.org/@@/A@D3CPQB](https://Wikioo.org/@@/A@D3CPQB) to explore the world of Japanese art.

Awards and Legacy

Throughout his career, Wada received numerous awards and honors, including an Officier in the Légion d'honneur and a Person of Cultural Merit. His contributions to Japanese Western-style painting are still celebrated today, with his work serving as an inspiration for future generations of artists.

• Member, Japan Art Academy
• Imperial Household Artist
• Recipient, Order of the Sacred Treasure and Order of Culture
• Officier, Légion d'honneur
• Person of Cultural Merit

For a deeper understanding of Wada Eisaku's life and work, visit [https://Wikioo.org/@/Wada-Eisaku](https://Wikioo.org/@/Wada-Eisaku) or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wada_Eisaku](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wada_Eisaku).