Kingfisher - Fujita Shunsui / Kakejiku Hanging Scroll
The subject of the hanging scroll is “Kingfisher.”
This scroll is classified as summer seasonal hangings.
In Japan, there has long been a tradition of cherishing the seasons, preserving their landscapes and seasonal customs in various forms. The bird depicted on this paper is known as a kingfisher, also referred to as "Jade" due to the color of its feathers, making it a quintessential symbol of summer.
This product, "Kingfisher," 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.
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–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–1185 CE), these Buddhist painting scrolls became popular among the aristocracy. By the late Kamakura period(1185 CE–1333 CE), with the popularity of the tea ceremony, alcoves were created to display power.
In the Azuchi-Momoyama period(1568 CE–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 conveyed 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.
| Quantity | |
| Size | |
| Weight | |
| Material | |
| Package type | Paulownia box |
| Origin | Made in Japan |
| Artist / Brand |
Choose options
In this scroll, a single kingfisher perches quietly on a stake, gazing over the river's surface.
Though small in size, the bird's presence is emphasized by its head painted in vivid blue. Above the kingfisher, a maple spreads in shades of blue and green, creating a beautiful gradient that enhances the scene's tranquility and depth.
The kingfisher, known for its unerring ability to capture its prey, symbolizes the fulfillment of great ambitions.
Focusing on the mounting, chuberi “central border fabric” is adorned with a peony pattern. Peonies symbolize happiness and nobility, the area near the main work features an arabesque pattern applied in a single line. The arabesque pattern, with its sprawling stems, leaves, and vines, symbolizes vitality and hence represents "longevity" and "prosperity."
Although this item is typically categorized as a summer scroll, its auspicious symbolism makes it enjoyable throughout the year.
About Craftsmen
Fujita Shunsui
Born in 1976, originating from Aichi Prefecture. A member of the Ink Painting Society with several solo exhibitions to his name. Fujita specializes in portraits, animals, and flower-and-bird paintings.