AI Visualisation Notice: This listing contains AI Visualisations. Please refer to the original photographs for the actual object condition, colour, details and size. All AI Visualisations are clearly marked in the images. ⠀ Five Monkeys Reaching for the Moon (月五猿之図) Original Japanese Hand-Painted Silk Hanging Scroll by Nakayama Jin 中山甚 ⠀ An elegant Japanese hanging scroll depicting five playful monkeys descending from the branches of an ancient pine tree, attempting to capture the reflection of the moon in the water below. ⠀ This charming composition combines traditional Japanese animal painting, delicate brushwork and a symbolic subject deeply connected to East Asian Buddhist folklore. ⠀ Artwork Description ⠀ Five monkeys are depicted forming a graceful descending chain from the branches of an old pine tree. ⠀ Each monkey is portrayed in a different position, creating a lively sense of movement as they reach downward toward the shimmering reflection of the moon. ⠀ The monkeys' expressive faces, delicate fur and elongated limbs are rendered with subtle gradations of black and grey ink, demonstrating the artist's careful brushwork and attention to detail. ⠀ The pine tree is depicted with fine needles and textured branches, creating an elegant natural setting. ⠀ At the bottom of the composition, a luminous white moon appears reflected in the water, surrounded by gentle ripples. ⠀ The restrained monochromatic palette and spacious background create a peaceful and atmospheric composition, while the unusual arrangement of the five monkeys adds a playful and imaginative character. ⠀ The painting is complemented by an elegant traditional Japanese brocade mounting featuring warm brown and gold decorative patterns. ⠀ Five Monkeys Reaching for the Moon – Japanese Cultural Symbolism ⠀ The subject of monkeys attempting to capture the moon's reflection is a traditional theme found in East Asian Buddhist stories and paintings. ⠀ The moon reflected in water represents something that appears real but cannot be physically grasped. In Buddhist interpretation, this imagery serves as a reminder of the difference between reality and illusion. ⠀ In Japanese decorative art, the subject also has an auspicious interpretation. ⠀ The Japanese word "tsuki" means both "moon" and, in a different written form, "luck." The image of monkeys reaching for the moon can therefore also suggest reaching for good fortune. ⠀ This combination of philosophical meaning, playful imagery and traditional cultural symbolism makes the painting particularly appealing to collectors of Japanese art. ⠀ About the Artist ⠀ Nakayama Jin 中山甚 was a Japanese painter from Gifu Prefecture. ⠀ He was associated with the Tōyō Bijutsukai art group and worked in traditional Japanese painting, with particular interests in bird-and-flower subjects and decorative compositions. ⠀ His work reflects the traditional Japanese approach to natural subjects, combining expressive brushwork with decorative elegance. ⠀ Artist and Signature ⠀ The painting bears the signature and red seal of Nakayama Jin 中山甚. ⠀ The accompanying original wooden tomobako also bears the artist's corresponding signature and seal. ⠀ An additional label on the outer storage case identifies the artist as Nakayama Jin 中山甚 and records the title 月五猿之図 (Five Monkeys Reaching for the Moon). ⠀ The matching inscriptions on the painting and wooden box are important features of this artwork. ⠀ Artwork Details ⠀ Artist: Nakayama Jin 中山甚 ⠀ Title: 月五猿之図 ⠀ English Title: Five Monkeys Reaching for the Moon ⠀ Origin: Japan ⠀ Technique: Original hand-painted ink and subtle colour ⠀ Material: Silk ⠀ Format: Japanese hanging scroll / Kakejiku ⠀ Signature: Signed and sealed 甚 (Jin) ⠀ Box: Original signed wooden tomobako with protective outer storage case ⠀ Overall size: 191 × 54 cm ⠀ Painting size: 125 × 40.5 cm ⠀ Condition ⠀ The hanging scroll is in good overall condition. ⠀ The painting retains its delicate ink gradations, expressive details and attractive overall appearance. ⠀ Minor age-related spotting, slight discolouration and small signs of wear are visible in some areas. ⠀ The decorative mounting remains attractive, with minor signs of age and handling. ⠀ The original wooden tomobako shows some surface marks and age-related wear. The protective outer storage case also shows signs of use, including wear to the identification label. ⠀ No major damage affecting the central composition is apparent in the photographs. ⠀ Please carefully examine all original photographs for the actual condition, colours and details. ⠀ Shipping ⠀ The item is planned to be shipped by FedEx, DHL, or Japan Post depending on the item, destination country and region.