Dragon over Fuji

Name: Dragon over Fuji
Brand: Kishi Ganku
SKU: 5927
Price: 380.00 EUR
Availability: InStock

Kakemono, unique work, 175 x 65 cm

Product number: 5927

Height 175 cm
Width 65 cm
Item Type Kakemono
Jikusaki Wood
Material Honshi Paper
Period of Creation Meiji (1868–1912)
Technique Hand-Painted
Unique Work Yes

Signature / Stamp:

Kishi Ganku

€380.00

Available, delivery time: 1-3 Days

Description

A dragon coils through dense banks of clouds above the snow-capped peak of Fuji – a motif that connects the power of nature with the mythology of the dragon as guardian and bringer of rain.

The hanging scroll bears the signature and seal of Kishi Ganku, the founder of the Kishi school, who was known for his powerful depictions of animals and, in particular, dragons. The dynamic linework of the dragon's body stands in appealing contrast to the calm silhouette of the mountain, rendered in soft tones of gray. Through the deliberate use of empty space, an impression of mist and movement is created, so that the dragon appears to emerge directly from the picture.

Depictions of the dragon over Fuji unite two of Japan's most significant symbols and are among the most striking motifs of classical ink painting.

Frequently asked

Does this work carry a seal or signature?

Yes, this piece carries the signature or seal of Kishi Ganku

When was the work created?

Based on the previous owners' information and the condition of the object we place it broadly in the Meiji (1868–1912) period, but cannot give a precise date.

Is this genuine craftsmanship?

Yes, this piece is a genuine handcrafted original that exists only once.

Why does the date of creation sometimes not match the artist's dates

Because the two pieces of information speak about different things: the period designation describes the object – support, colors, condition – while the signature reflects which name appears on the painting. In most cases there is no attempt at deception behind this, but rather Japanese painting training: copying from workshop models was the curriculum for centuries, an utsushi is regarded as a bow to the teacher, workshops signed with the master's name, and artist names were passed down within a school. Such a hanging scroll is therefore not a forgery, but a hand-painted one-of-a-kind that continues the formal language of its school – just not the work of the famous name, and priced accordingly. We explain this in detail in the guide Why does a kakemono often bear the signature of an artist long deceased?.