Absolute Auction – “Sparrows and Bamboo” by Kano Naonobu (1607–1650) – Early Edo Period – Ink on - 狩野尚信 attributed to Kano Naonobu (1607–1650) - Japan (No Reserve Price)

Absolute Auction – No Reserve.

A highly refined Japanese hanging scroll (kakejiku) painted by Kano Naonobu (狩野尚信, 1607–1650),
a central figure of the early Edo Kano school, known for his sophisticated ink paintings that balanced realism with poetic abstraction.

This scroll depicts two sparrows playfully flitting among bamboo leaves, executed in bold yet delicate brushstrokes using only black ink (sumi).
The composition captures the essence of life through minimal means — the vigorous energy of the birds contrasts beautifully with the still grace of bamboo,
symbolizing resilience, humility, and harmony in nature — key virtues of Edo-period aesthetics.

Naonobu’s restrained ink technique reflects the Zen-influenced ideal of simplicity,
while his confident brushwork demonstrates the Kano school’s mastery of spatial balance and rhythmic motion.

Mounted with elegant blue and gold silk brocade,
the scroll retains its refined classical presence.
It comes with a calligraphic appraisal note (kizame-sho) and an original wooden storage box (tomobako) — a rare and important combination that enhances its authenticity and historical value.

Details:

Artist: Kano Naonobu (狩野尚信, 1607–1650)

Title: Sparrows and Bamboo (Suzume to Take-zu)

Period: Early Edo period (17th century)

Medium: Ink on paper (shihon bokuga)

Technique: Freehand ink painting (sumi-e)

Mounting: Blue and gold silk brocade (kinran hyōgu)

Roller ends: Cattle bone

Dimensions:

Total: 137 cm × 44 cm

Painting: 59 cm × 28 cm

Accessories: Appraisal note (kizame-sho), original wooden box (tomobako)

Condition: Excellent for its age – minor toning and creasing consistent with a 17th-century piece.

Shipping: Secure international shipping from Japan with professional packaging and tracking.

A serene and elegant composition representing the spiritual and artistic ideals of the early Edo period,
perfect for collectors of Japanese ink painting and Zen-inspired art.



We use Japan post as a usual shipping method.

Dear French buyers

If you not receive the items within 2 weeks , please check the category "Recommended Letter (lettre recommandée) "with the tracking number our provided on the French Postal office online ("LaPoste.fr").

Dear Italian buyers

If you are an individual, please tell me codice fiscale by message at the time of payment. (If you are a legal entity, partia IVA)
Due to the recent tightening of Italian customs inspections, we cannot deliver the object to you without the above number.
However, due to extremely high shipping volumes at this time, delivery may take over three months.
Thank you for your understanding.

Dear Valued Buyers in Europe, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to you. Thanks to your continued support, I have been able to carry on my business for more than ten years. As of June 28, 2025, new regulations have taken full effect in the European Union concerning the importation of cultural property from outside the EU. Under these rules, when items are classified as “Cultural Property” or as antiques over 100 years old, and they are not accompanied by an Export Permit for Cultural Property, certain restrictions may apply under both Italian law and EU regulations. This Export Permit for Cultural Property has traditionally been required when exporting items such as swords, and obtaining it generally takes about one month. For this reason, when shipping hanging scrolls that are more than 100 years old, I will continue to use the same HS code as for those less than 100 years old. I sincerely ask for your kind understanding regarding this matter. With gratitude and respect,