Kakemono Sparrow under the Pine

Along the upper edge of the picture, a small sparrow traces its path across the wide, empty expanse of the paper, while on the right side of the composition a gnarled pine grows into the space with its soft clusters of needles. Below stands a figure in traditional dress, holding a large, circular straw object, whose calm, introspective posture lends the whole scene an almost narrative quality.

The restrained coloring, kept in subdued tones of gray and brown, leaves much of the bright silk ground exposed, creating a light, almost floating atmosphere. The contrast between the tiny, fleeting bird and the down-to-earth, richly detailed figure gives this composition its particular charm, telling of a quiet, rural scene.

The motif was painted by hand on silk; the scroll dates from the Taishô period and has Jikusaki made of wood. With its fine, old-masterly appearance, it is an appealing addition for collectors of traditional Japanese hanging scrolls.