Wild Geese and Reeds (Left Screen)

What it is

This six-panel folding screen, painted in ink and muted colour, shows wild geese among reeds, one goose flying, and bare winter branches with snow. It is attributed to Miyamoto Musashi and dates from the 17th century, forming a pair with a matching right-hand screen.

Why it matters

As a pair, these screens suggest a complete seasonal scene, moving from the gathered birds to winter branches. They are among the few artworks connected to Musashi, who is better known as a swordsman and author. Whether or not he truly painted them, they are tied to the tradition that surrounded his later, quieter years.

Look closer

• How does this screen connect visually to its companion piece?
• What does the choice of geese and winter branches suggest about the seasons being shown?
• Why is it hard to be certain who painted an old screen like this?