Overview
This magnificent Japanese hanging scroll (kakejiku) depicts a lavish Chinese palace scene based on the story of Guo Ziyi (known as Kaku Zigi in Japan), a celebrated Tang dynasty general synonymous with longevity and wealth.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This magnificent Japanese hanging scroll (kakejiku) depicts a lavish Chinese palace scene based on the story of Guo Ziyi (known as Kaku Zigi in Japan), a celebrated Tang dynasty general synonymous with longevity and wealth.
Story
Popular in Japanese Nihonga painting, scenes of Guo Ziyi celebrating his birthday surrounded by family symbolized ultimate prosperity and peace. The story celebrates a Tang general who saved the dynasty and lived to see numerous offspring thrive. This elaborate depiction brought auspicious wishes of long life and success into traditional Japanese households.
Maker / Origin
The scroll bears an artist's signature reading 'Getsushin' (月耕 / 月耕筆) alongside two red artist seals, indicating attribution to or the school of Ogata Getsushin or a contemporary Nihonga painter. Japanese painters of this period frequently drew inspiration from classical Chinese historical narratives, reinterpreting traditional subjects using vibrant modern pigments and refined brushwork.
Condition & Value
The painting surface shows mild age-related toning and light creasing typical for silk scrolls, but overall pigments remain bright and intact. The mounting and fitted wooden box are well-preserved, which helps maintain collectible value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
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.