– A hand-painted silk scroll by Watanabe Chokudō (渡辺直堂) – Roaring tiger among bamboo beneath a large full moon – Dramatic monochrome setting enlivened by warm ochre and black-striped brushwork Summary: A powerful Japanese hanging scroll by Watanabe Chokudō depicting a tiger turning upwards and roaring beneath a full moon. The animal’s muscular body fills the lower composition, surrounded by loosely brushed bamboo and pale atmospheric washes. Warm ochre colouring and dark stripes give the tiger physical presence, while the moon and misted ground create a markedly quieter counterpoint. The result is a dramatic but balanced work for collectors of Japanese animal painting and expressive early modern nihonga. Watanabe Chokudō was born in Akita in 1886 and later studied under Terasaki Kōgyō. His admiration for Nagasawa Rosetsu is especially relevant to the tiger subject, which invites bold characterisation and energetic brushwork. The tiger turns sharply through the body, its head raised and mouth open. Curving stripes follow the rounded back and flank, strengthening the sense of mass, while the lifted tail creates a final upward movement towards the moon. Bamboo surrounds the animal without forming a dense enclosure. Broad grey-black leaves and stems emerge through the mist, allowing the tiger to remain dominant while adding depth and an appropriately untamed setting. The moon is rendered as a pale, nearly unmodulated disc. Its stillness heightens the force of the roaring animal below and creates the traditional contrast between controlled empty space and concentrated brushwork. In East Asian art, the tiger is associated with courage, protective strength and the elemental force of wind. Paired with bamboo, it becomes an image of power moving through a flexible but resilient natural world. The silk and mounting carry age-related fading, toning and modest wear. These changes give the work a mellow surface while the tiger, moon and bamboo retain a strong overall presence. A compelling animal painting by Watanabe Chokudō, combining theatrical movement with the atmospheric restraint of moonlit ink painting. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer’s responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese art and guarantee this piece’s authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours. 1679