MATSUMATO FUKO: A HANGING SCROLL OF SOTOBA KOMACHIBy Matsumoto Fuko (1840-1923), signed and sealed Fuko TakatadaJapan, Meiji period (1868-1912)Ink and watercolor on silk, mounted on fabric coated paper as a hanging scroll with wooden handles. Titled Sotoba Komachi (title from Noh-Theatre), signed along with artist seal: Fuko Takatada. Japanese inscription on the verso, and enclosed in a red lacquer box. In the composition of various shades of grey, our attention is drawn to the red pouch tucked under Komachi’s right breast, around her waist.Sotoba Komachi is a Noh play written by Kan'ami. Much of the strength of the play derives from the variety provided by the three main and distinct sections: lament for lost beauty; witty religious debate; and ghostly possession.SIZE (image) 109 x 37.8 cm, 178 x 48.6 cm (including mounting)Condition: Very good condition with minor traces of age and wear, creasing, soiling, foxing, and very minor loss of material along the edges. Fabric pilling on the verso. Matsumoto Fuko (1840-1923) was a renowned Japanese painter and poet known for his contributions to the Nihonga movement. He studied under Shiokawa Bunrin and was associated with Sotobakomachi, a literary and artistic circle that explored classical Japanese literature and poetry. Fuko's works were characterized by his mastery of traditional Japanese painting techniques, poetic inscriptions, and references to classical poetry. He received numerous awards and accolades for his art, and his works are highly sought after for their exquisite beauty and deep connection to Japanese culture and nature.