Kakemono Dragon Head in Aged Ink Painting

One of a kind — this work exists only once.

Period:
Meiji (1868–1912)
Dimensions (height x width):
189 x 55 cm
Item number:
5604

This piece has been sold.

Sold – no longer available

This piece was a handmade 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

  • JikusakiBone
  • Material HonshiSilk
  • MotifMythology
  • TechniqueHand-Painted

Description

In dark ink tones, the head of a dragon rises from bands of clouds, the eyes alert and piercing, the mane painted in wild, energetic lines. The aged patina of the support material lends the motif an additional, almost mysterious depth and clearly hints at the long age of this hanging scroll.

Created in the Meiji period, this kakemono was executed in free ink painting by hand on silk, a technique that demands spontaneous, powerful brushwork. The jikusaki made of bone complements the traditional hanging scroll mounting fittingly.

The dragon is among the most significant symbols of East Asian art and stands for strength, wisdom, and protection. In this reduced, almost sketch-like execution, the motif unfolds a particular expressive power that gives the work a distinctive presence. For collectors and lovers of old Japanese ink painting, this kakemono is an interesting testament to its time with clearly visible history.

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