Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This dynamic Japanese hanging scroll (kakejiku) features a vivid, action-packed scene depicting characters from the classic 16th-century Chinese epic 'Journey to the West' (known as Saiyuki in Japan). The composition showcases the legendary Monkey King, Sun Wukong (Son Goku), alongside the pig-demon Zhu Bajie (Cho Hakkai) engaged in a chaotic battle against monstrous adversaries.
Story
Centuries before modern manga, Japanese artists were obsessed with the Chinese epic 'Journey to the West'. This scroll captures the pig-demon Zhu Bajie and the Monkey King in a chaotic, supernatural battle.
Maker / Origin
While the specific artist's signature is not immediately visible, the style strongly aligns with late Edo to Meiji-period illustrators who specialized in popular literature and warrior prints (musha-e). Artists of this era were heavily influenced by masters like Tsukioka Yoshitoshi and Utagawa Kuniyoshi, who brought a cinematic, high-energy drama to traditional scroll painting.
Condition & Value
The painting shows some light creasing, minor foxing (brown spots), and gentle toning consistent with age. The silk mounting appears intact with some light wear along the edges. Overall, the colors remain remarkably vibrant and the scroll is in stable, displayable condition.
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.