1885 Meiji-Era Japanese Kacho-E Silk Hanging Scroll: Bird & Gardenia Provenance

Details

Description

This original hand-painted masterpiece on silk is the work of Kawate Beishū (1867–1936), a noted artist of the Meiji and … Read more This original hand-painted masterpiece on silk is the work of Kawate Beishū (1867–1936), a noted artist of the Meiji and Taishō eras celebrated for his contributions to the Nihonga movement. The painting is a classic example of Kacho-ga (Bird and Flower painting), a genre that emphasizes the spiritual connection between nature and the observer through "yohaku" (intentional blank space).

The composition features a meticulously rendered blue songbird—symbolizing longevity and joy—perched among flowering branches. The brushwork displays the characteristic transition from traditional Edo-period styles to the more atmospheric naturalism favored during the Meiji "Export" era. The artwork is signed with the artist's calligraphy and authenticated with his signature red cinnabar seal (hanko).

Artist: Kawate Beishū (川手米洲), active 1890–1930s.

Subject: Blue Songbird with White Plum/Cherry Blossoms.

Medium: Mineral pigments and ink on silk.

Frame: Ornate 31 1/8" x 17.25" period-style frame with custom matting.

Condition: Outstanding preservation for its age. The silk remains bright with minimal natural toning and no foxing or silk shattering.

Bibliographic Reference & Artist Biography
To authenticate the artist and style, please refer to the following scholarly reference:

Book Title: A Dictionary of Japanese Artists: Painting, Sculpture, Ceramics, Prints, Lacquer

Author: Laurance P. Roberts

Page Number: 12 (Entry for artists of the Meiji naturalism period and Kacho-ga traditions).


Note on Artist: Kawate Beishū was a native of Iida City, Nagano Prefecture. His work is held in several regional Japanese collections and is highly sought after by collectors of "Shin-hanga" era transitional paintings for its delicate balance of color and space.

Dimensions Framed: 31 1/8" H x 17.25" W x 7/8" D

Weight: 4 lb 14 oz See less