Gold Leaf Craft: Dawn Red Mount Fuji / Kakejiku Hanging Scroll

The subject of the hanging scroll is  “Gold Leaf Craft: Dawn Red Mount Fuji.”

The main work depicts Mount Fuji shining in gold, exuding a glamorous radiance from the lavish use of gold leaf. The scene of Mount Fuji turning red during sunrise is said to be a rare sight that occurs only once or twice a year, and it is believed to possess strong auspicious energy due to its divine appearance.

Focusing on the mounting, peony motifs with fan-shaped patterns adorn chuberi central border fabric, while pine motifs embellish the  ichimonji abrics attached to above and below main work section. The fan symbolizes development and prosperity, derived from its wide-spreading shape, while the peony represents happiness. When combined, the fan and peony motifs create an auspicious design. Additionally, the pine, known for retaining its greenery throughout the seasons, symbolizes longevity.

This product, "Gold Leaf Craft:Dawn Red Mount Fuji," is carefully stored, wrapped around a scroll rod inside a beautiful wooden paulownia box. The cylindrical parts at both ends of the scroll, known as jikusaki, are crucial when storing the scroll. The jikusaki of this product are made of stoneware, and the material used for the scroll ends can be indicative of who created it and for what purpose, adding to its allure.

The hanging scroll is an important item that allows one to enjoy various events and seasonal changes, bringing a sense of ease and the transition of the seasons into everyday life. It is also frequently used to entertain guests who visit.

Tracing its history, the hanging scroll was introduced to Japan during the Asuka period (538 CEー710 CE). It coincided with the arrival of Buddhism from China, and initially, Buddhist paintings were depicted on these scrolls. In the Heian period (794 CEー1185 CE), these Buddhist painting scrolls became popular among the aristocracy. By the late Kamakura period (1185 CEー1333 CE), with the popularity of the tea ceremony, alcoves were created to display power.

In the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568 CEー1600 CE), influenced by the tea master Sen no Rikyu, scrolls began to be changed seasonally. The mounted scroll, appreciated in these alcoves, plays an important role in Japanese interior decoration.

Hanging scrolls are deeply rooted in Japanese traditional culture, yet the number of Japanese rooms and alcoves where scrolls are displayed has been decreasing. However, the value of conveying the messages encapsulated in scrolls remains undeniable.

The charm of these scrolls lies in the different meanings expressed by the characters and paintings they depict, the fabrics used in the details, and the patterns.

Today, they add color to both homes and offices and are ideal for collections of Japanese art. Hanging scrolls not only represent Japanese culture but also provide viewers with a sense of richness and a serene space.