Lot 339: Suzuki Kiitsu (1796-1858) Rimpa School, early 19th century

Rimpa School, early 19th century
Kakejiku, in ink and colour on silk, depicting three auspicious animals, usually seen in the company of Fukurokuju, the God of longevity: in the foreground a deer is standing in front of a crane, with one hind leg raised, scratching its chin, whilst a bat hovers above, signed Seisei Kiitsu with seal Shukurin; with wood storage box. 124.5cm x 48.5cm (49in x 19 1/8in). (2).

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Born in Omi Province (present Shiga Prefecture), the son of a dyer who later transferred his shop to Edo. He worked in the family business before becoming a pupil of Sakai Hoitsu (1761-1828). In 1826, along with his master, he prepared for publication Korin Hyakuzu (Collection of 100 Works by Korin), from which he learned the style of Sotatsu and Korin.

In Japan, Fukurokuju (from Japanese fuku [happiness]; roku [wealth]; and ju [longevity]) is one of the Seven Gods of Fortune in Japanese mythology. He is usually accompanied by a crane and a turtle, which are considered to be symbols of longevity. He is also sometimes accompanied by a bat (the Chinese pronunciation of the second character of bat is the same as the first character of Fukurokuju) or a deer (the Chinese pronunciation of the character of deer is the same as the second character of Fukurokuju).