Maruyama School Hanging Scroll, 'Chinese Beauties' (仕女図), in the Style of Maruyama Ōkyo

Story

During the Edo period, Japanese artists became obsessed with idealized Chinese court life, creating a genre of 'Chinese Beauty' paintings. This scroll captures a quiet, intimate moment of leisure, blending classical Chinese themes with the soft, realistic touch of Kyoto's most influential art movement.

Maker / Origin

Maruyama Ōkyo (1733–1795) revolutionized Japanese painting by combining traditional decorative styles with Western-influenced perspective and direct observation from nature (shashin). His followers in the Maruyama School continued this legacy, producing highly sought-after works that balanced realism with classical elegance for wealthy merchants and aristocrats.

Condition & Value

The painting shows typical signs of aging consistent with the late Edo period, including light creasing, minor pigment loss, and gentle toning of the silk background. The mounting remains intact and stable, and the painting retains its vibrant colors and fine details. The accompanying wooden box has helped preserve it well.