Gessen 月僊

月僊 Gessen (1741-1809)
Painter of the late Edo period. Born in Aichi, Japan, he became a monk at the age of 10. After studying painting under 桜井雪館 Sakurai Sekkan (1715-1790), he studied under 円山応挙 Maruyama Okyo (1733-1795) and was also influenced by 与謝蕪村 Yosa Buson (1716-1784), blending the styles of both to establish a unique style. As his fame grew, his painting fees were high, and he was sometimes called the "Beggar Gessen." However, later, he used his wealth to rebuild Jakushoji Temple and to help the poor, among other social projects. He painted distinctive landscapes, portraits, flowers and birds, and haiga (haiku poetry), but he was particularly skilled in Sansui landscapes and left behind many works.