Kakemono Sparrow on a Pine Branch

A small sparrow, captured in flight beneath a pine branch – a motif of great simplicity, relying entirely on the observation of a fleeting moment. The needles of the pine are rendered with short, energetic brushstrokes, while the bird itself is depicted with softer, rounded forms – an interplay of hardness and softness that lends the image its vitality.

The pine is one of the most significant plant symbols of Japan and stands for constancy and long life, while the small sparrow stands for modesty and everyday happiness – together they form a quiet, yet meaningful pictorial theme.

The hanging scroll is delivered including a wooden box, in which it can be stored protected from light and moisture, and is well suited as a calm, unobtrusive accent in the tokonoma.