The Owl / Kakejiku Hanging Scroll

The subject of the hanging scroll is “The Owl.”

In Japanese culture, the owl, referred to as fukurou, is seen as a bird of good fortune, symbolizing the removal of hardships and the invitation of happiness. This belief stems from a play on words, as the sound of fukurou in Japanese is similar to "fortune coming" or "no hardship."

Its ability to rotate its head 270 degrees is associated with not having financial troubles or worries. Known as a bird with keen foresight and referred to as the "sage of the forest," the owl is revered in the West as a symbol of wisdom and academia. Therefore, it is cherished as a guardian of academic success and business prosperity.

Given its auspicious symbols, this scroll is highly valued as a year-round decoration.

This product, "The Owl," 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.