Vermeil Soaring Cranes / Kakejiku Hanging Scroll

The subject of the hanging scroll is  "Vermeil Soaring Cranes."

Mount Fuji depicted in vibrant crimson hues, with cranes gracefully dancing above the sea of clouds, presents a beautiful sight.

This hanging scroll combines its dazzling beauty with the auspiciousness brought by Mount Fuji and the cranes. Mount Fuji, revered as Japan's highest mountain, is surrounded by numerous legends of “furoufushi”eternal youth and longevity" which are the origins of its name.

The main work depicts the crimson Mount Fuji towering above a sea of clouds, with cranes flying around it. The sight of Mount Fuji turning red during sunrise is said to be a rare occurrence, happening only once or twice a year, and it is believed to possess strong auspicious energy due to its divine appearance. The vivid Mount Fuji illuminated by the morning sun is sure to instill vitality and hope in those who behold it.

This product,  "Vermeil Soaring Cranes",  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–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.

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.