This is an original ink and color painting by contemporary Japanese artist Kazuya Sasagawa (笹川和也), titled “Odoru Kappa” (踊る河童), meaning “Dancing Kappa.” Rendered in the traditional sumi-e style, this delightful work features a trio of kappa — mythological water creatures from Japanese folklore — engaging in a joyful dance under a large full moon. Their comical expressions and exaggerated gestures evoke a sense of movement and light-hearted mischief. The figures are depicted with humorous detail, some carrying small gourds and money pouches, giving the scene a festive, almost celebratory mood. The background is minimal, with soft ink strokes suggesting reeds or bamboo and a night sky, directing focus to the energetic figures. Sasagawa's masterful brushwork captures both the spontaneity of the moment and the fantastical essence of these folkloric beings. The artwork is signed and stamped by the artist in the lower left corner. It is professionally mounted and framed with a muted green mat and polished wooden frame. The back of the frame features a titled inscription and additional stamps. Please note that the frame has some slight scuffing and minor stains due to age and storage, but overall it remains in good display condition and complements the artwork well. Dimensions: Frame Size: H47.5 cm × W56.5 cm × D2.6 cm Image Size: H30.5 cm × W40 cm About Kazuya Sasagawa (笹川和也) Tokyo-born in 1930, Kazuya Sasagawa has built a distinctive niche within the Japanese painting tradition by combining classical techniques with a playful, narrative sensibility. Although trained in Japanese-style techniques (nihonga) and ink-wash (sumi sai), Sasagawa often turns his gaze to the whimsical—most notably his series of frogs in lively scenes, fishing, marching, or cavorting in folkloric settings. His works also extend beyond the purely fantastical: Sasagawa has depicted local scenes (for example the “Yasaka Shrine Festival” of 1979 in Toride) and traditional motifs with a freshness that invites the viewer in. The artist’s participation in exhibitions such as the Japanese Bunjin Gafu Exhibition and his role as a council member of the International Sumi Painting Association attest to his standing. Sasagawa’s blend of lyrical narrative, humor, and refined brushwork makes him an appealing bridge between classical Japanese painting and a lighter, more narrative-oriented visual world. For collectors interested in Japanese painting that offers both visual sophistication and a sense of story, Sasagawa’s work presents a rewarding opportunity: art that is grounded in tradition, yet alive with personality. Shipping / Policy Carefully packaged and shipped from Japan by Japan Post or DHL with tracking. If you purchase multiple items, combined shipping is available. Please contact us if needed. Import duties, VAT (or equivalent consumption tax), and any other fees are the responsibility of the buyer. Guarantee Our shop is a licensed antiques dealer in Japan. We guarantee the authenticity of this work.