Nap Under a Tree

Beneath the spreading branches of a gnarled pine, two roughly sketched figures have settled down: one appears to be dozing with closed eyes, while the other teasingly touches its face with a twig – a small, humorous everyday scene full of situational comedy.

Such unconventional, often slightly caricature-like pairs of figures recall the depictions of eccentric scholars and hermits popular in Zen painting, who move beyond the bounds of social convention. The sketch-like, spontaneous brushwork with its deep black ink areas lends the scene additional vividness and lightness.

The kakemono was hand-painted on paper in the Shôwa period and is fitted with wooden jikusaki. A calligraphic inscription and seal in the upper right confirm the execution as an independent work by a Japanese painter. For all who appreciate classical hanging scrolls with a touch of humor and human warmth, this unique work is an original choice.