The artistic legacy of Konoe Nobutada, a central figure of the Momoyama period, is primarily defined by his recognition as one of the Kan'ei Sanpitsu, or the Three Brushes of the Kan'ei period. Born in 1565, this Japanese courtier balanced the responsibilities of high-ranking political offices with a prolific career in painting, calligraphy, and poetry.
Early Political Career and Titles
The son of Konoe Sakihisa, Nobutada underwent his genpuku ceremony in 1577. Oda Nobunaga presided over the event, gifting the young noble one character of his own name, which resulted in the name Nobumoto. Throughout his early adult years, his name shifted several times, evolving to Nobusuke and later Sanmyakuin during his late period. His rise through the imperial court was swift; he served as naidaijin starting in 1580 and assumed the role of sadaijin in 1585, a position he retained until 1591.
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In 1585, Nobutada became embroiled in the kanpaku sōron, a significant dispute involving Nijō Akizane and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The disagreement concerned the succession to the position of kanpaku. Although the court initially intended to appoint Nobutada, conflicting opinions regarding the details of the transition led both men to petition Hideyoshi. This intervention ultimately led Hideyoshi to seek the title himself, requiring his adoption by Konoe Sakihisa to satisfy the requirement that only members of the Sekke could hold the office. Although promised succession, Nobutada saw Toyotomi Hidetsugu appointed to the position in 1591, prompting his own resignation and subsequent retirement.
Exile and Later Service
Nobutada’s political fortunes shifted again in 1594 when he incurred the displeasure of Emperor Go-Yōzei. Consequently, he was exiled to Bonotsu in Satsuma province, located on the island of Kyūshū, for a duration of three years. He eventually received imperial permission to return to Kyoto in September 1596, where he resumed his role as sadaijin. His career culminated in 1605 when he was finally appointed to the position of kanpaku.
Artistic and Literary Contributions
Beyond his political duties, Nobutada maintained a reputation as an accomplished calligrapher, painter, poet, and diarist. His influence extended to other figures of his time, serving as a tutor to the noblewoman and calligrapher Ono Otsu. He produced a significant body of work that established his status as a master of brush techniques. Having no legitimate biological sons, he chose to pass on his legacy by adopting his nephew, Nobuhiro, as his heir. Nobutada passed away in 1614 at the age of 49.
Fast facts
- Born: 1565, Japan
- Died: 1614
- Occupations: Poet, painter, kampaku, calligrapher
- Notable designation: One of the Kan'ei Sanpitsu
- Father: Konoe Sakihisa
- Adopted heir: Nobuhiro
- Period of exile: 1594–1596
Questions readers ask
What were the names Nobutada used during his life?
He was known as Nobumoto and Nobusuke in his early years, and as Sanmyakuin during his late period.
Why was he exiled to Satsuma?
He was exiled to Bonotsu in 1594 after angering Emperor Go-Yōzei.
