master painter; great artist
Refers to a highly accomplished painter or artist, often with a sense of deep respect for their skill and achievements.
He is one of Japan's leading master painters.
Honorific title attached after a painter's or artist's name to show respect. Often used in formal introductions, articles, or when addressing the artist directly.
We are honored to have Master Painter Yamada with us today.
At the exhibition, new works by the artist Sato were unveiled.
Master painter Yamada's new work was unveiled.
He came to be called a master painter while still young.
巨匠 praises a master of any art form (painting, film, music), whereas 画伯 specifically honors a painter.
画家 is the plain, unmarked term for a painter, while 画伯 is the honorific form attached to a painter's name to show respect.
counter for people
画 (picture, painting) + 伯 (chief, count, earl). Originally a title of nobility, 伯 came to be used as an honorific suffix for masters of arts such as painting.