Preliminary identification

Japanese Hanging Scroll (Kakejiku) depicting Jurōjin and Karako Child

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

This traditional Japanese hanging scroll (*kakejiku*) depicts Jurōjin, the deity of longevity, accompanied by a young attendant (*karako*) carrying a basket of peaches. Executed in delicate ink and light colors on silk, the painting features fine calligraphy and red artist seals (*hanko*).

Story

Rooted in Taoist mythology, Jurōjin is revered across East Asia as one of Japan's Seven Lucky Gods, symbolizing long life and wisdom. The attendant carries sacred peaches, an ancient emblem of immortality that promises health to the scroll's owner.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned by a famous master, the piece reflects the disciplined tradition of Japanese Nihonga painting. Artists in this school underwent years of rigorous training to master brush control, ink gradations, and mineral pigments.

Condition & Value

The painting surface shows light age-appropriate toning and minor creasing along the mounting, but remains intact and visually vibrant. Condition is fair to good for a scroll of this age. Value is determined by the condition of the painting and silk mounting, as well as artistic quality.

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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.