Kakemono Dark Koi Leaping Over the Wave

One of a kind — this work exists only once.

Signature / Stamp:
Gyokuhō
Period:
Shôwa (1926–1989)
Dimensions (height x width):
200 x 35 cm
Item number:
4165

This piece has been sold.

Sold – no longer available

This piece was handmade by Gyokuhō and was a one-of-a-kind work. It cannot be reordered and will never exist in this form again. The page stays online as part of our archive.

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Details about the sold piece

  • JikusakiWood
  • Material HonshiPaper
  • MotifAnimals
  • TechniqueHand-Painted

Description

Powerful and dynamic, this koi appears to leap out of the water – the energetic brushwork masterfully captures its movement in a few broad ink strokes. Scales and fins are indicated with fine lines, while the body is modeled in strong shades of gray.

The koi is traditionally regarded in Japan as a symbol of perseverance, courage and success, as legend has it that it swims upstream against waterfalls to eventually transform into a dragon. Depictions of leaping koi were therefore popular auspicious motifs meant to express strength and determination.

Painted on paper and mounted with wooden rods, this kakemono dates from the Shôwa period. The reduced, almost calligraphic pictorial language makes this hanging scroll a vivid example of Japanese ink painting and a symbolic bringer of good fortune for any room.

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