Nap at Work

Name: Nap at Work
SKU: 4465
Price: 160.00 EUR
Availability: InStock

Kakemono, unique work, 160 x 47 cm

Product number: 4465

Height 160 cm
Width 47 cm
Item Type Kakemono
Jikusaki Wood
Material Honshi Paper
Period of Creation Meiji (1868–1912)
Technique Hand-Painted
Unique Work Yes

€160.00

Available, delivery time: 1-3 Days

Description

With a wink, this kakemono approaches the everyday life of two men who should actually be occupied with work. While one speaks with animated gestures, apparently explaining a task or telling a story, the other has already leaned to the side, using a stone as an improvised pillow for a brief nap.

The scene is drawn with a light, humorous hand: the facial features of the two figures, their clothing, and the relaxed posture of the sleeping man convey a warmhearted, tongue-in-cheek observation of human weaknesses.

Such genre depictions were highly popular in Japanese painting, as they combined everyday scenes with a touch of humor and humanity. The picture is painted on paper and fitted with a wooden axis. For collectors interested in narrative, humorous kakemono beyond classical landscape or flower motifs, this work is an entertaining addition.

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 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?.