Hotei Under the Pine

Name: Hotei Under the Pine
SKU: 4227
Price: 160.00 EUR
Availability: InStock

Kakemono, unique work, 200 x 53 cm

Product number: 4227

Height 200 cm
Width 53 cm
Item Type Kakemono
Jikusaki Bone
Material Honshi Silk
Period of Creation Shôwa (1926–1989)
Technique Hand-Painted
Unique Work Yes

€160.00

Available, delivery time: 1-3 Days

Description

With a round, bald head, a broad smile, and a wide-open robe, this kakemono depicts Hotei, one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan and a symbol of contentment, generosity, and joie de vivre. He raises one hand upward in an inviting gesture, while the other rests on his ample belly – a gesture that underscores his carefree, good-natured character. Behind him rises a gnarled pine tree, its needles suggested in fine, dense circles.

As a symbol of longevity and constancy, the tree ideally complements the meaning of the figure, since both motifs – Hotei and pine – traditionally promise fortune, health, and a long life. Depictions of Hotei are among the most popular motifs of Japanese folk painting and were often hung on festive occasions such as New Year. For collectors interested in the Seven Lucky Gods or cheerful, folk motifs, this kakemono is a joyful and meaningful choice.

Frequently asked

When was the work created?

Based on the previous owners' information and the condition of the object we place it broadly in the Shôwa (1926–1989) 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?.