Kano Motonobu was a prominent Japanese painter born in 1476 and known for his role in the development of the Kano school of painting. He was a master of ink wash painting and played a significant part in blending traditional Japanese art with influences from Chinese painting. His works often featured landscapes, animals, and scenes from nature. Motonobu's style emphasized bold brushwork and a strong sense of composition, which set the foundation for future generations of artists in the Kano school. He passed away in 1559, leaving behind a legacy that influenced many artists in the Muromachi period and beyond.