ARTIST : The signature reads Kofuku. The first seal reads Mitsui Kofuku and the second seal reads Shisei, which is one of his painting names. Mitsui was a very wealthy Kyotoite, well known for his painting and tea ceremony pursuits.
AGE : It is dated Keio 2nd (1866), Rishun. Rishun is the first day of spring, the day immediately proceeding the Setsubun festival. This would undoubtedly been an important day for the artist.
SIZE : The painting measures 14.5 inches across and is 41 inches high. The scroll measures 19 inches across and is 74 inches high.
DESCRIPTION : A late Edo tiger in the traditions of the Maruyama school of Art. Its lithe and elongated body tapers to a fantastically flexible tail. Its spine is brilliantly accentuated, stripes lick randomly outward like flames. Leopard like spots adorn its head and neck.
TECHNIQUE : Ink, pigment and gofun on silk
CONDITION : The painting is in very good condition. The mounting is in reasonable condition, albeit there is some insect damage to the right side.
