Kakejiku, ancient Japanese painting of a bird of prey in colour on paper – Japan, circa 1900.

This ancient Japanese kakejiku is a hanging scroll of a bird of prey in colour on paper, with a textile mounting and wooden rods. It originates from Japan, from the late Meiji or Taishō period, when painted scrolls were displayed in the tokonoma. The kakejiku was hung in the tokonoma, the honour alcove of the Japanese home, and was changed according to the season or occasion. The artwork mounted on paper could be rolled up for storage, which explains its vertical format. The piece is executed in colour pigments on paper, mounted with fabric borders and finished with a wooden top rod and a lower axis that allow it to be hung and rolled. It retains its hanging cord. The composition depicts a bird of prey perched on a branch, in colour on paper, with a blue silk mounting. Due to its vertical format, it can be used as a wall piece for a serene corner, an office, or an entrance. It fits into wabi-sabi, japandi, and minimalist interiors, where it adds depth and a graphic accent. Details. Dimensions: Length 54 cm – Depth 3 cm – Height 180 cm. Style: Traditional Japanese. Materials and techniques: Paper; colour on paper; textile mounting; wooden rods. Place of origin: Japan. Period: Meiji–Taishō period. Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Condition / Observations: Good. Paper with patina, stains, and marks due to age. Dimensions when rolled: Length 54 cm – Height 7 cm. Wear consistent with age and use.