Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This magnificent pair of Japanese hanging scrolls (kakejiku) depicts famed warrior narratives in delicate mineral pigments and ink on silk or paper, complete with classical calligraphic inscriptions. Signed 'Tsuneyuki hitsu' (常行筆) with seals, the works demonstrate the refined hand of Kawamata Tsuneyuki, founder of the distinguished Kawamata school of painting.
Story
Active during the Kyōho to Hōreki eras (1716–1764), Kawamata Tsuneyuki pioneered an exceptionally elegant style of classical Japanese figure painting. Rather than standard woodblock prints, his workshop created bespoke hand-painted scrolls for elite patrons.
Maker / Origin
Kawamata Tsuneyuki (川又常行) was an influential Edo-period artist who founded the Kawamata school, famed for gracefully proportioned figures, fine line work, and rich color harmony. His students, including Kawamata Tsunemasa, continued his legacy of producing refined hand-painted works (nikku-ga) during the height of the Edo period.
Condition & Value
Visible age-related wear, light creasing, and minor toning across the silk/paper mounting surfaces. The painted figures remain vibrant with clear signature and seal marks. Condition is fair to good for 18th-century Japanese paper and silk works.
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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.