Original Antique Japanese Nihonga Shikishi Painting, Noh Theatre Warrior & Priestess, Signed “Yūsai”, Kyosai School Influence, Meiji-Taisho

Antique Japanese Painting | Original Nihonga on Shikishi | Late Meiji – Taisho Period

This is a rare original hand-painted Nihonga artwork on traditional shikishi board (decorative paperboard used for calligraphy and painting).
This artwork was produced using a traditional woodblock outline as a base, then meticulously hand-painted with natural mineral pigments and sumi ink. This method, known as tesaishoku (hand-colored print), was common in the Kyosai and Tsukioka Kogyo circles for depicting Noh theatre scenes. Each hand-colored version is unique and bears the individual artist’s seal and brushmark.
The artwork depicts a striking scene inspired by Noh theatre: a mythic warrior spirit with flowing white hair and a priestess in ceremonial attire.
The brushwork, pigment technique, and the use of mineral colors reflect the influence of the Kawanabe Kyosai school (暁斎画塾).
The piece is signed with the artist’s pseudonym 「幽斎」(Yūsai) and bears a round red seal 「幽斎之印」.

As part of our research, the seal and calligraphic style have been carefully compared with entries in Japanese professional seal dictionaries (『篆刻大辞典』/『印章辞典』).
According to this research, the piece was most likely painted by a lesser-known student or follower from the Kyosai circle during the late Meiji to early Taisho era (circa 1890–1920).
✨ Please note: this attribution is based on our best knowledge and available references, but we cannot provide an official certificate of authenticity.

Condition:
Good condition for its age; minimal wear consistent with historical use. Beautiful details and gold accents.
Perfect for collectors of Japanese art, Noh theatre, and Nihonga painting.

This attribution is provided to the best of our research and knowledge, but please note it does not constitute an official appraisal or certificate of authenticity.

-------

Please note that antique and vintage artworks may have traces of time, stains and creases due to age, so please review all photos.
We upload photos where you can check the condition of the item. But sometimes the photos may not show everything. Also, the colors in the photos may not match the original. Please feel free to ask for additional photos.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Before shipping, all artworks are placed in special cardboard envelopes/boxes and cardboard to ensure their safety during transportation.

If possible, please provide your phone number when placing your order, it is often required by the courier for delivery.