Ganrei – 岸礼 (1816–1883) – Waterfall – 滝 – Signed with his court title – In original box

This piece was painted for an influential patron, we know this from his signature. Signed : 左近将曹岸禮 (禮 is an older, more formal way of writing 礼).

Honorary Court Title: The title “Sakon Shoso” (Lesser Captain of the Left Division of Inner Palace Guards) was often bestowed upon high-ranking artists and cultural figures as an honorary distinction. It signaled his high social standing and patronage by the court rather than active military duty.

It is a masterful example of Kishi-ha. That “rough” technique you’re seeing—often characterized by dry brushwork (hakkitsu) and a deliberate lack of “pretty” refinement—is exactly what gives this work that vital energy (ki-sho). Ganrei’s adopted son (and Ganku’s great-grandson), Kishi Chikudō, was often ranked alongside Suzuki Hyakunen and Kōno Bairei as the “Three Greatest Painters of Kyoto”.

He used the contrast of thick and thin sumi ink to create a sense of distance and “full vitality,” often setting a single, powerful subject—like this waterfall—against vast, unpainted areas. The beautiful shippo pattern (seven treasures) in the silk mounting is a traditional Japanese geometric design composed of endlessly interlocking circles, representing harmony, good relationships, and prosperity. Inspired by Buddhist symbolism, it is a popular, auspicious motif often seen in kimono, ceramics, and sashiko stitching.

Seals: 岸禮 / 雪峰（せっぽう). Ganrei is held in the MFA, and many other museum collections internationally.

Box: 滝 – waterfall / 布 – cloth (referring to the handmade shippo pattern textile as more personal and creative than formal solid silk) / 岸 禮 – Another example of his signature from a personal collection is towards the end of the photo gallery.

Normal-good condition for its age (toning, wrinkles, small stains, aging etc. – but still strong and extremely enjoyable!). In original handmade tomobako (storage box).

Dimensions = 24″ x 71″. – Comes in an artisan handmade fitted wood box and with a document of authenticity. Free shipping worldwide! All prices in Canadian dollars.