Japanese Hanging Scroll – Leaping Carp and Autumn Grasses – Signed Senpo Kada (嘉田千畝) About the Artist Senpo Kada (嘉田千畝, born 1905) was a Japanese painter born in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, Japan. He originally used the artistic name Koshu (耕収) and was particularly known for his paintings of birds, flowers, and other subjects from nature. Working within the tradition of Japanese painting (Nihonga), his artistic subjects reflect an appreciation of the natural world and traditional Japanese aesthetics. About the Artwork This elegant Japanese hanging scroll depicts a powerful carp rising gracefully upwards, surrounded by autumn grasses, reeds, and delicate blue wildflowers. The carp is rendered in subtle shades of black and grey ink, with carefully detailed scales, expressive eyes, and flowing fins. The graceful movement of the fish contrasts beautifully with the delicate grasses below, creating a balanced and atmospheric composition. The painting combines fine brushwork, soft ink gradations, and restrained colour to express both movement and tranquillity. In Japanese culture, the carp (koi) is an important symbol of strength, perseverance, courage, and success. The traditional legend of a carp ascending a waterfall and transforming into a dragon represents determination and the overcoming of difficulties. For this reason, paintings of carp have long been appreciated as auspicious artworks in Japanese homes and traditional interiors. The work bears the artist’s signature and two red seals. The painting is executed on silk and mounted as a traditional Japanese hanging scroll (kakejiku), with decorative brocade borders. Artwork Details * Artist: Signed Senpo Kada (嘉田千畝) * Country of origin: Japan * Period: Presumed 20th century * Subject: Leaping carp and autumn grasses * Material: Silk * Technique: Ink and colour on silk * Format: Traditional Japanese hanging scroll * Overall height: Approximately 200 cm * Overall width: Approximately 61 cm * Signature: Signed with two red seals * Original signed wooden box (tomobako): Not included Condition This is a vintage Japanese hanging scroll showing signs of age and previous storage. There are visible age-related stains, discolouration, horizontal creases, and wrinkles on the silk and mounting. These signs of ageing are consistent with its vintage character. Please carefully examine all photographs, as they form an important part of the condition description. Collector’s Appeal This decorative hanging scroll combines traditional Japanese ink painting, refined natural motifs, and the auspicious symbolism of the carp. Its elegant composition and substantial size make it a distinctive example of Japanese hanging scroll art, suitable for collectors of Nihonga, traditional Japanese paintings, and Asian antiques. A charming piece reflecting the beauty and symbolic traditions of Japanese art.