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.