Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A fine Japanese hanging scroll rendered in ink and mineral pigments on silk, depicting the classical narrative of the 'Three Boats' (Sanfune-no-tsuki/Sanfune-zu) associated with the Heian courtier and poet Fujiwara no Kintō. It bears the artist's seals and includes a tomobako/kiwamebako (inscribed wooden box) authenticated by Nihonga artist Ogyū Tensen.
Story
In 1005, courtier Fujiwara no Kintō famously chose to board the Waka boat, mastering verse while three decorated barges floated on the Ōi River. This scroll captures that legendary moment of aristocratic elegance.
Maker / Origin
Matsubara Saku (1838–1907) was a painter of the Fukko Yamato-e (Revival Yamato-e) movement hailing from Mutsu Province (Yashima Domain), active as both a loyalist samurai activist (shishi) during the Bakumatsu period and later as a dedicated historical painter.
Condition & Value
The silk ground shows mild, age-appropriate toning and minor surface creasing consistent with rolled storage, but the pigment colors remain vivid and stable with intact brocade mountings. Overall well-preserved condition helps sustain market appeal.
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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.