Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

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An original painting, full colour on paper, 48.75 x 13.75 in; 124 x 35 cms. Shows Kintaro (aka Sakata no Kintoki) riding a large Chinese shishi lion. Kintaro was a child of prodigious strength who had a vermillion-coloured body. He is often depicted with the mountain creatures from Mount Ashigara where he was raised and in particular wrestling with giant mountain bears. He carries his huge battle-axe. Riding lions/tigers is illustrated elsewhere: specifically Kato Kiyomasa (Watonai) hunting and eventually subduing tigers in Korea. There are also images of Kintoki riding a bear. Signed Hachijuhachi rojin Manji hitsu, “Brush of Manji, old man of eighty-eight.” Seal Hyaku, “Hundred.” Twenty-six paintings are known from his eighty-eighth year, although given the attrition rate for paintings, he probably produced many more.

The painting is a wonderful example of Hokusai’s free handling of the brush style on a full kakemono. Some slight creasing, otherwise good condition.

Status: Available