Maple

Most Western paintings pursue photographic realism, while Japanese paintings including this work tend to be decorative by using characteristic materials and brushwork.
For example, I used scarlet mineral paint to express the rough and shiny texture, drawn on washi, blended by hemp, paper mulberry and oriental paper bush.
The background was finished by sprinkling gold leaf finely with a technique called Sago used in lacquer crafts.
You can see the traditional Japanese approach of incorporating the characteristics of each material into expression in Japanese cuisine and kimono. Near the upstream of Konobe River of lga Mie, there is an old maple tree which is said to be 400 years old. Not only the thickness around the trunk, but also the wide branches on all sides are so graceful.
What's overwhelming is this maple is holding on to a big rock. Combined with clear stream of the Konobe River below, forming a beautiful scenery.
Hope you enjoy the contrast between the fiery red of autumn leaf and the bright blue of 2 small birds I placed.