Visual dynamics in the Illustrated tale of Genji : -"equivalent statics" and "organized dynamics"─

Abstract

19 old obscure paintings in the Illustrated Tale of Genji (produced in 12th century) were considered as formal and static picture. But now, by referring to the latest restorative copies with chemical analysis, we can see creative and dynamic works in them. I analyze the paintings (omit one painting"Sekiya"which has no architecture image). And I classified their composition forms into two types. One type is divided in two parts by outline of a part of architecture image. And it tells the story to put primary and secondary figures on each part. I call that composition form "equivalent statics". Another type is organized around dominant dynamic theme, from which movement radiates throughout the entire area. The visual dynamics in those paintings tell the story with more dramatic impact. I call that form "organized dynamics".I demonstrate how the painters of the Illustrated Tale of Genji used movements for making dynamic composition and told the story.