Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This dynamic late Edo period hanging scroll depicts a dramatic narrative scene from Buddhist history, featuring Nichiren Shonin enduring persecution amidst atmospheric lightning bolt storms. Hand-painted on paper with vibrant mineral pigments and ink, it comes complete with its fitted wooden storage box (tomobako) bearing descriptive inscriptions.
Story
In July 1838 (Tenpo 9), an artist in Bungo Province rendered this miraculous scene of Nichiren Shonin surviving the Tatsunokuchi Persecution. Divine lightning strikes the executioners' weapons as warriors scatter in terror. This piece captures a pivotal moment of spiritual triumph over feudal authority.
Maker / Origin
While created by a local regional artist rather than a famous court painter, works like this were commissioned for local temples or devout private patrons during the late Edo period. The inscription specifically references Bungo Province (modern-day Oita), highlighting the vibrant provincial tradition of devotional Buddhist art in 19th-century Japan.
Condition & Value
The paper painting shows visible horizontal creasing, minor surface staining, and age-related toning consistent with 180-year-old scrolls. The silk mounting shows moderate wear near the edges. The wooden storage box is intact and preserved. Overall fair to good antique condition, with minor creasing slightly softening the value.
Full Research
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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.