Shō Kannon Bodhisattva Kakejiku, Seated on Lotus Against Gold Ground, Signed 晟光 with Red Seal, Vintage Scroll

A crowned, two-armed Kannon Bodhisattva, most likely Shō Kannon, sits in meditation on a blooming lotus before a warm golden field in this vintage kakejiku. Fine outlines, soft halos and a restrained palette give the figure stillness and quiet presence rather than drama.

The Piece

Kannon holds an open lotus blossom near the chest while the other hand forms a graceful Buddhist gesture. The figure is one-headed and two-armed, the form identified with Shō Kannon, the standard manifestation of the Bodhisattva of compassion. Flowing scarves, layered robes, jewelry and a floral crown are rendered in subdued gold, green, blue, ivory and ochre, framed by softly rendered circular halos and delicate radiating lines.

The composition balances intricate sacred imagery with an expansive golden field. Fine outlines define the face, crown, jewelry, hands, robes and lotus petals, while softer washes create the surrounding halos and atmospheric radiance. A two-character artist inscription and red seal appear near the lower right.

A dark blue-green brocade-style mounting with repeating floral motifs frames the artwork, finished with narrow gold-toned borders. The spacious vertical composition suits a Buddhist altar or devotional area, a tea room or tokonoma alcove, a meditation room or study, and traditional Japanese and thoughtfully curated contemporary interiors alike.

Details

• Era: Vintage
• Origin: Japan
• Format: Kakejiku (hanging scroll), large vertical composition with generous negative space
• Subject: Two-armed, one-headed Kannon Bodhisattva, likely Shō Kannon, seated on a lotus holding a lotus blossom
• Signature: Two-character inscription and red seal at lower right, believed to read 晟光 (possibly Seikō)
• Material: Finely textured paper or textile-like surface (substrate unauthenticated)
• Color: Gold, green, blue, ivory and ochre on a warm golden ground
• Mounting: Dark blue-green floral brocade-style textile with narrow gold-toned borders; hanging cord and lower scroll rod

Condition

• Vintage and pre-owned, with visible age-related characteristics; it should not be expected to look factory new.
• General toning and color variation, with small dark marks above the upper halo and minor spots and surface marks.
• Light horizontal creasing or fold lines, surface waviness and wrinkles, and areas of faint discoloration.
• Natural wear from handling, storage and previous display.
• The photographs show the actual piece and form an essential part of the condition record; colors may vary slightly with lighting and screen settings.

Authenticity & Care

The inscription is believed to read 晟光 (Seikō) and is offered as attributed; the reading, substrate, pigments, production method, date and provenance have not been independently authenticated, and silk, mineral pigment, gold leaf and entirely hand-painted construction are not guaranteed without supporting documentation. Every piece is examined and documented in Japan before dispatch and is offered with the Japonista authenticity guarantee.

Delivery from Japan

Packed by hand in Japan and shipped insured and tracked by EMS or an equivalent express service. Import duties and taxes, where applicable, are payable on arrival. Returns follow our published policy.

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