Hanabusa Itchō

Hanabusa Itchō (1652-1724) was a distinguished Japanese painter and poet, remembered for both his innovative style and controversial life. Born in Edo (modern-day Tokyo), Itchō broke away from the conventional Kano school's artistic traditions, choosing to weave a blend of humor, realism, and wit into his work. His distinct style often captured the everyday life of commoners, a deviation from the era's mainstream, which favored historical or mythical subjects. Despite his talent, Itchō's sharp satire didn't escape criticism. Infamously, he was exiled for mocking the shogunate in one of his works, but was later pardoned. Today, he's revered as an artist who dared to think differently, leaving an indelible mark on Japanese art history.