Folding Screens with Painting of Four-Seasonal Flowers and Birds with “Motonobu” Seal
A Pair of Six-Panel Folding Screens
Muromachi period to Momoyama period, mid-16th century
Painting with ink on paper
Including outer frame: 374 cm (width) x 166 cm (height) / each
Given its dimensions, this piece appears to be a one-third scale model of the approximately 250 cm tall Kongo Rikishi (Nio) statue. However, its size also suggests it could represent one of the 28 guardian deities (Naraen Kengo O). This particular figure is Agyo, who, alongside Ungyo, forms a traditional protective pair.
In Japanese tradition, Agyo and Ungyo Kongo Rikishi statues adopt contrasting poses. Agyo raises his left hand, gripping a Kongo pestle (weapon), while his right hand is lowered with fingers spread. His stance features a leftward twist at the lower back. In contrast, Ungyo lowers his left hand into a fist, raises his right hand with fingers spread, and twists his lower back to the right. This statue faithfully adheres to that tradition. The pronounced depiction of bulging veins in the limbs and the intense, wide-eyed expression exemplify the realism characteristic of the Kamakura period.
This piece serves as the central element of a hanging plaque and is identified as Jizo Bosatsu. Key features such as the shaved head, Buddhist priest’s robe, jewel held in the left palm, and a small hole in the right hand—likely intended to hold a priest’s staff—confirm its identity. The figure is seated in the lotus position atop a lotus flower base, which has small holes on the front and both sides (one of which contains a nail), suggesting that an ornament was once suspended from it.
This statue is made of cast copper with a gilt surface. It is a standard artifice made during the Kamakura period in Kyoto. The hanging wooden board is an ancient architectural material, as it is indicated with the brand “Ikaruga-dera Temple.” It is painted white, suggesting that it was part of the door of a Buddhist hall. Despite the inscribed name Ikaruga-dera Temple (Horyu-ji Temple), this wooden board appears to be a material from the Nara period. Although created in a different era from the Jizo Bosatsu, the board and Jizo Bosatsu together form a well-balanced combination.
Hanging scroll, Ink and light color on paper
47 x 26.5 cm
This rectangular painting depicts two puppies: one facing the viewer and the other with its back turned. The puppies are rendered in Okyo’s unmistakably charming style. This small-format work showcases several of Okyo’s signature techniques, such as tsuketate and katabokashi, which he used to create a sense of plasticity and depth in his figures. Overall, it is a delightful portrayal of puppies playing in the snow.
The painting features two of Okyo’s standard seals, both square intaglio designs. The seal impressions closely resemble those on Okyo’s Bamboo in Wind and Rain, a pair of folding screens designated as an Important Cultural Property. These screens were created in 1776, when Okyo was 44 years old—the same year he painted his renowned Wisteria screens, now housed at the Nezu Museum and also recognized as an Important Cultural Property. This period marks a significant high point in the artist’s career.
March 13 – 18, 2025
Exhibiting at: Nicholas Hall, 17 East 76th Street, 4th Floor
Asia Week Hours: 10am-6pm, daily
We are thrilled to announce our participation in Asia Week New York with new acquisitions of Japanese and Korean art this month!
Among the remarkable treasures is a striking Kongo Rikishi (Nio) statue of Agyo, one half of the traditional guardian pair alongside Ungyo. Together, they stand as formidable protectors among the 28 guardian deities (Naraen Kengo O) in Japanese tradition. Agyo is depicted in his signature dynamic stance, raising his left hand while firmly gripping a Kongo pestle (weapon), with his right hand lowered and fingers splayed—an iconic contrast to his counterpart. The masterful craftsmanship of this piece is evident in the powerful musculature, the bulging veins that pulse with lifelike energy, and the fierce, wide-eyed expression. These striking details exemplify the intense realism and dynamic artistry that define the Kamakura period.
We welcome your visit to experience this artwork in person, along with other outstanding masterpieces.
View our latest works of art on our website during this Autumn and Winter season!
About the Gallery
Our gallery is located on Shinmonzen-dōri, known as Kyoto’s foremost location for businesses specializing in antiques. You will recognize our building by its characteristic facade that is dominated by large blue glass panels—an unusual feature in our neighborhood. In our white gallery space, we exhibit a wide selection of artworks covering the entire scope of Japanese art. Objects include Buddhist and Shintō sculptures, masks of the Nō theater, screens, hanging scrolls, and ceramics. Savoring these artworks one by one, their captivating beauty will open up to you the full breadth of Japan’s long history and culture. We would be delighted to help you find just the right piece for you.
For twelve years, we ran a gallery in the United Kingdom and we are fortunate to count many overseas clients among our customers. Not a few clients greet us with “I’m back again!” when they enter our gallery during visits to Japan.
Many of our artworks have been acquired by major museums in the United States. Of course, we will be happy to arrange overseas shipping for you.
Also, please do not hesitate to contact us in English.
Please drop by our gallery anytime. We look forward to your visit!
