Preliminary identification

Japanese Hanging Scroll Painting (Kakejiku) depicting Shuten-dōji, Edo Period Style

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

An intriguing Japanese hand-painted hanging scroll (kakejiku) depicting a scene from the famous folk legend of Shuten-dōji (the demon king of Mount Ōe). The scene shows warriors disguised as itinerant monks or travelers drinking sake with the giant demon lord and his red oni attendants inside a traditional palace setting.

Story

Centuries ago in feudal Japan, the tale of Shuten-dōji captivated audiences across all social classes. Minamoto no Raikō and his brave samurai ventured into the demon king's lair disguised to poison him with magical sake. This vibrant painting captures that tense moment right before the battle begins.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned by a specific named master, the painting bears red artist seals in the lower-left corner and follows the traditional narrative painting conventions of the Tosa or Nara-ehon schools. Workshop painters during the Edo period produced detailed story scrolls (otogizōshi-e) for wealthy samurai and aristocratic patrons to preserve national legends.

Condition & Value

The painted paper surface shows age-appropriate creasing, horizontal fold marks, minor staining, and light pigment rubbing. The silk brocade mounting and bone scroll ends remain intact. The original fitted wooden box is present and adds to the presentation.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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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.