Overview
A sophisticated example of 'Zougan' (wood inlay) art, featuring a stylized woman surrounded by seven red-crowned cranes.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A sophisticated example of 'Zougan' (wood inlay) art, featuring a stylized woman surrounded by seven red-crowned cranes.
Story
Following the end of WWII, Japanese artisans began blending their ancient woodworking traditions with the sleek, graphic sensibilities of the Mid-Century Modern movement to appeal to a global audience.
Maker / Origin
While this piece is likely the product of a high-end workshop rather than a single named artist, it represents the pinnacle of the Hakone-Zougan tradition.
Condition & Value
The panel appears to be in excellent condition, preserved behind glass which has prevented the wood veneers from drying out or lifting. The colors remain remarkably crisp, suggesting it has been kept out of direct sunlight. Excellent preservation of the delicate 'red' veneers adds significantly to its appeal.
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.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375