Japanese Hanging Scroll Painting of Empress Jingū Fishing, Meiji Period

Story

Legend says that in the 3rd century, Empress Jingū bent a needle into a hook and used a thread from her robes to fish. Catching a sweetfish on her first cast, she took it as a divine sign that her upcoming voyage would succeed.

Maker / Origin

The painting is signed 'Gansen' (or 'Nansen') with a red artist seal. While likely painted by a skilled, classically trained Meiji-period studio artist rather than a globally famous master, the painter demonstrates exceptional mastery of historical costume, equine anatomy, and traditional Nihonga (Japanese-style painting) techniques.

Condition & Value

The painting shows typical signs of age, including horizontal creasing from being rolled, minor pigment loss, and light toning/foxing on the paper mounting. These condition issues are typical for a 120-year-old scroll and do not severely impact its display value, though professional conservation could prevent further creasing.