Preliminary identification

Japanese Hanging Scroll (Kakejiku) of a Warrior / Guardian Deity, signed 'Keiryū' (見龍)

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a Japanese hanging scroll (kakejiku) rendered in ink and mineral pigments on silk, depicting a fierce armored Chinese-style warrior or guardian deity holding a spear. It is signed 'Keiryū ga' (見龍画) with a red artist seal and comes mounted in traditional silk brocade with its fitted wooden storage box (tomobako).

Story

Clad in mythical armor with a steely glare, this warrior channels centuries of East Asian hero lore. Painted on fine silk, Japanese artists used these iconic figures to bestow household protection and honor.

Maker / Origin

Signed 'Keiryū' (見龍) with a red seal, this scroll represents the work of a trained Japanese Nihonga or classical Kano/Tosa-lineage painter active in the late 19th to mid-20th century. During this era, atelier-trained artists catered to traditional domestic alcoves (tokonoma) by depicting auspicious legends, warrior history, and protective deities.

Condition & Value

Very good antique condition overall; the silk shows mild, consistent age toning and faint foxing spots in the upper background, with intact brocade mounting and sound roller ends. The presence of the handmade mount and storage box helps maintain its preservation and secondary market appeal.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.