Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A striking Japanese hanging scroll (kakemono) depicting Marishiten (Marici), the Buddhist deity of light, mirages, and protection, rendered in mineral pigments and gold leaf on paper. The deity is shown in a classic warrior manifestation, riding a galloping white wild boar while brandishing a bow, arrow, sword, and spear within a golden sun disc.
Story
Samurai warriors in feudal Japan worshipped Marishiten for her power to make them invisible to their enemies. This protective deity of light was painted inside a golden sun disc, serving as a portable spiritual shield during times of conflict.
Maker / Origin
Created by a skilled but anonymous Buddhist painter (Eshi) associated with a temple workshop. These artists dedicated their lives to the precise, ritualistic copying of sacred iconographies, viewing the act of painting itself as a form of active meditation and devotion.
Condition & Value
The painting itself is in good condition with minor pigment loss and creasing. The mounting shows typical signs of age, including minor staining, creasing, and wear to the silk borders, with some insect damage visible on the upper backing paper.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.