The Miracles of the Kasuga Deity Scroll

by Takashina Takekane (14th century)

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The Miracles of the Kasuga Deity Scroll by Takashina Takekane (14th century)

Takashina Takekane (14th century) Japanese Woodblock print scroll
The Miracles of the Kasuga Deity Scroll

The Miracles of the Kasuga Deity - In 14th century Japan, members of the Fujiwara clan created a set of 20 painted handscrolls (emakimono) honoring the deities of Kasuga Shrine. Titled "Kasuga Gongen Genki-e" in Japanese, the work comprises text and illustrations regarding the miracles and history associated with Kasuga Shrine and Kofukuji Temple in Nara. Takashina Takekane created paintings to accompany text written by Takatsukasa (Fujiwara) Mototada and his three sons, based on earlier stories compiled by monks.

This Presentation - This handscroll features four modern multi-panel woodblock prints, with blocks of text before and after each image, and a modern scroll mounting. Reading from right to left as the scroll unrolls, the first image shows noblemen and monks kneeling at the entrance of a building, with pine trees and spotted deer at left. The second design shows a nobleman and a beauty sitting at the edge of a bamboo grove, with a river at upper left. The third scene shows workers cutting and shaping lumber and beginning to construct a building, placing wooden pillars on stones along a rope grid, with a palace atop a hill at left. The forth image features a panoramic view looking down at several palace buildings. A nobleman sits in a room at left, with palace guards in white robe and black court caps strolling about the grounds and sitting in the buildings. The scroll has flecked endpapers and an outer olive green cloth backing, tied with a woven purple cord. The rolled has wooden ends. The scroll is housed in a wooden box with a lid with the remains of a label on one end.

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This beautiful handscroll offers a wonderful opportunity to view these lovely and historic designs as originally intended, exposing a few feet of the scroll at a time as you unroll the expansive views. The woodblocks are beautifully printed with fine line work and wonderful detail. A great example of a traditional Japanese art form.

Please note: Due to the size and weight of the set, an additional shipping charge of $100 will be added to international orders. Size - First print 16 1/2" x 34 5/8"; second print 16 1/2" x 18"; third print 16 1/2" x 88"; fourth print 16 1/2" x 96"; overall length of unrolled scroll is just over 29' (including text panels); box size 3 1/2" x 18" x 3 5/8"
Condition - Prints: with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight creasing from rolled storage, a few small spots. Small tear at edge near end of scroll. End of purple cord fraying. Box: soiling, scratches, wear at edges. Please see photos for details.

Photos from the Scroll

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