ARTIST : The work is sealed Kyoshun though the artist remains anonymous. The reference to Bokkei in the accompanying inscription similarly remains a mystery.
AGE : Likely dating to the second half of the 19th century
SIZE : The scroll measures 68'' by 12.5'' (173 by 32 cm). The images measures 37'' by 11.5'' (94 by 29.5 cm).
DESCRIPTION : Brushed with ink on paper and signed 'in the style of Bokkei', this work draws inspiration from the suiboku artists of the Muromachi period. Deft washes of ink define the myna bird as it perches comfortably on the bough of a pine. The viewer is engaged by the myna peering mischevously from behind its wing, very much in keeping with the spirit of a bird which was traditionally kept to learn speech and amuse people.
TECHNIQUE : ink on paper
CONDITION : The scroll is in good condition. There is one light crease running through the lower section. The scroll has been remounted once with the main section of the silk brocade (Chuberi) and the upper and lower sections (Joge) pre-dating the decorated paper of the Ichimoji and Futai.
