Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)A large rectangular wood panel fitted at the back as a wall hanging and finely lacquered and inlaid with a scene of a tengu and sennin. The tengu is floating on a gold takamaki-e cloud, the details inlaid in ivory, wood and mother of pearl, and is presenting a tama to a sennin below him, who appears to be exchanging it for the tengu king Sojobo’s fan. This fan is made from seven feathers and is a symbol of Sojobo’s power. The sennin, seated underneath a large gold takamaki-e tree, is finely rendered and inlaid with sections of lacquered wood, fine ivory and mother of pearl. He wears an artemisia leaf cloak and holds a gnarly staff to which a basket is attached, containing reishi mushrooms. The reverse shows a lacquered tranquil scene of sparrows (suzume) and lilies. The frame is lacquered with geometrical designs and fitted with silver buttons on the four sides.SIZE 59.1 x 48.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear as visible in the catalog illustration.Provenance: British collection.