1.
master painter; accomplished artist
An honorific title for a highly skilled and respected painter or artist. Can also be used humorously or sarcastically to describe someone who draws, regardless of skill.
画伯 is an honorific title for a highly skilled and respected painter. It combines 画 (painting) + 伯 (chief, elder).
Usage
Originally a respectful title for accomplished painters, similar to 'master painter.' In modern usage, it has developed a humorous or ironic use, especially online and among younger speakers, to refer to anyone who draws — even jokingly when the drawing is not particularly skilled.
Common collocations
- 画伯の作品 (the master's works)
- 画伯と呼ばれる (to be called a master painter)
- ○○画伯 (Master [Name] — used as a title after a name)
Similar words
- 画家: painter, artist (neutral, standard term)
- 巨匠: master, maestro (broader, not limited to painting)
- 画伯 carries more respect or formality than 画家, but its ironic use is now very common
Register
Formal when used seriously; playful or ironic in casual/internet contexts.