Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A finely hand-painted Japanese kakejiku (hanging scroll) on silk depicting the legendary duel between the young warrior Ushiwakamaru (later Minamoto no Yoshitsune) and the giant warrior monk Benkei at Gojo Bridge. The painting features delicate mineral pigments, fine ink linework, and gold leaf accents on the fan, housed in a traditional wooden tomobako (storage box) with an accompanying appraisal certificate.
Story
On a misty night in Kyoto, a giant warrior monk named Benkei stood on Gojo Bridge, having defeated 999 swordsmen to take their weapons. His final opponent was a seemingly delicate youth, Ushiwakamaru, who used superhuman agility to leap over Benkei's spear, winning his eternal loyalty.
Maker / Origin
Tosa Mitsuoki (1617–1691) was a monumental figure in Japanese art history who successfully revived the Tosa School, reclaiming the position of official painter to the imperial court (edokoro-azukari). His style beautifully synthesized the traditional, flat, colorful Japanese Yamato-e style with the delicate, ink-wash techniques of Chinese painting.
Condition & Value
The painting shows typical signs of aging consistent with an antique scroll, including mild creasing, toning of the silk background, and minor pigment wear. The textile mounting and wooden box appear well-preserved, which helps maintain the piece's overall value.
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.