Two Gnarled Trees
Kakemono, unique work, 210 x 58 cm
Product number:
3459
- Height 210 cm
- Width 58 cm
- Item Type Kakemono
- Jikusaki Sculpture
- Material Honshi Paper
- Period of Creation Shôwa (1926–1989)
- Technique Hand-Painted
- Unique Work Yes
€120.00
Available, delivery time: 1-3 Days
Description
With strong, densely applied brushstrokes, this kakemono, Two Gnarled Trees, shows two gnarled tree trunks whose entwined branches and knobby roots speak of a long, weather-beaten life. The dense, dark needlework of the treetops forms an effective contrast to the brightly reserved, gnarled sections of the trunks.
The wet-on-wet technique creates soft transitions in the foliage, while the trunks are worked out with clear, contoured lines – a deliberate contrast that makes the texture of both bark and needles equally palpable. Such tree portraits were regarded in Chinese-Japanese painting as an independent subject, symbolizing endurance and strength of character.
In East Asia, old, gnarled trees were often compared to wise, steadfast scholars who retain their form despite all adversities. For collectors of classical tree and landscape motifs, this kakemono is an expressive and characterful choice.
Frequently asked
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.
Yes, this piece is a genuine handcrafted original that exists only once.
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?.
