Motonobu Paintings & Artwork for Sale | Motonobu Art Value Price Guide

May. 17, 2026
JAPANESE SHUTEN-DOJI PAINTINGS AFT. KANO MOTONOBU
Est: $150 - $300
Set of six 19th century hand painted scenes from "The Tale of Shuten-doji" after scrolls by Kano Motonobu (1476-1559). Paint, ink, gilding on paper. Fully mounted on press board type backing surrounded by silk fabric and gold paper "mats". Good condition with expected signs of age, toning, etc. Artworks 10.5" x 14.5". Backing boards 16" x 20". Unframed.
District Auction
Nov. 22, 2025
Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), Birds and Flowers of the Four Seasons (Shiki kacho zu), Muromachi period, 16th century | 狩野元信　四季花鳥図屏風　室町時代　16世紀
Est: $4,000,000 - $6,000,000
pair of six-panel folding screens: ink and colour on paper, sealed Motonobu, silk brocade border, black lacquer mounts, engraved copper-gilt fittings each approx. 155 x 61.4 cm. (when folded) each approx. 155 x 343. cm. (when unfolded)
Sotheby's
Dec. 11, 2024
TWO PORTRAIT PAINTINGS
Est: €150 - €250
TWO PORTRAIT PAINTINGS Japan, 18th/19th c. 47,5 x 21,3 cm / 89 x 17 cm Ink and colors on paper, each mounted as a hanging scroll. a) In the art of Kano Motonobu (1476-1559). The scholar Sugawara no Michizane (845-903). Sealed: Motonobu. b) Portrait of Matsuo Basho (1644-1694). Inscribed, signed, sealed. Collection of Prof. Dr Hermann Schröder (1902-1991), Aachen, and expanded by his family - Traces of age, partly water stain Zwei Portraitsdarstellungen Japan, 18./19. Jh. 47,5 x 21,3 cm / 89 x 17 cm Tusche und Farben auf Papier, als Hängerolle montiert. a) Art des Kano Motonobu (1476-1559). Der Gelehrte Sugawara no Michizane (845-903). Siegel: Motonobu. b) Portrait Matsuo Basho (1644-1694). Aufschrift, signiert, Siegel. Sammlung Prof. Dr. Hermann Schröder (1902-1991), Aachen, und von seiner Familie erweitert - Altersspuren, teils Wasserfleck
Nagel Auction
Dec. 06, 2024
ATTRIBUTED TO KANO MOTONOBU (1476-1559): DARUMA AND CONFUCIUS
Est: €1,500 - €3,000
ATTRIBUTED TO KANO MOTONOBU (1476-1559): DARUMA AND CONFUCIUS Attributed to Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), with tsubo pot ‘Motonobu’ seal Japan, 16th century, Muromachi period (1333-1573) Ink on paper. Mounted as a hanging scroll within a silk brocade frame, with ivory jikusaki (roller ends). Expressively painted depicting Daruma, rather amusingly, seated in meditation inside a bird’s nest within a tree, looking down with stern facial expression at Confucius, who is approaching him. Inscriptions: With the tsubo pot ‘Motonobu’ seal at the lower left corner. Inscription on the backside, attributing the work to Kano Motonobu: 狩野元信、道釈人物圖軸、斑氏立徳蔵 ‘Kano Motonobu, Doshaku jinbutsu zu jiku, Ikaruga shi Rittoku zo’ [A hanging scroll painting of religious figures (doshaku), in the collection of Ikaruga Rittoku]. The red square seal on the back of the scroll (tentative reading): 姫永娯鑑 ‘Hiei Gokan’. SIZE (image) 88 x 38 cm, SIZE (incl. mounting) 176 x 55 cm. Condition: Overall good appearance with traces of wear and age, tears and material loss hardly noticeable due to paper backing, some associated touchups. Mounting with wear, minor material loss and soiling, age cracks to roller ends. Important notice: Please note that we will need to remove the ivory roller ends before shipping / handing over the item. The roller ends are not part of this offer. Provenance: From the collection of Mark S. Pratt, thence by descent. Mark Shrum Pratt (1928-2023), a graduate of Brown University, Harvard, the Sorbonne, and the Georgetown School of Foreign Service, served 35 years with the U.S. State Department with postings in Tokyo, Hong Kong, Vientiane, Paris, and Taipei, as well as Washington D.C., ending his career as United States Consul General in Guangzhou, China. Upon retirement, he returned to Washington and remained active with foreign affairs and China-related organizations. During his time abroad, Mark developed a keen taste for Chinese and Japanese art, especially porcelain and paintings. Some pieces from his collection are now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Kano Motonobu (1476-1559) was a highly influential Japanese painter and a major contributor to the Kano school of painting. Born into a family of artists, Motonobu followed in his father's footsteps and worked for the Ashikaga shogunate. His early talent led him to becoming a personal assistant to Yoshimasa, the retired shogun, who was deeply interested in aesthetics. Despite his early success, Motonobu remained a dedicated student of nature and Chinese painting. He studied the works of Song and Yuan artists, mastering the monochromatic ink wash painting style. However, being the son-in-law of Tosa Mitsunobu, the founder of the Yamato-e style, Motonobu combined the Chinese and Japanese influences, creating a unique and expressive style that would define the Kano school for centuries. Motonobu established a successful workshop, collaborating with his sons and other talented artists. He was not only a skilled painter but also a shrewd businessman, securing numerous commissions for his studio. His versatility as an artist was evident in his landscapes, figure paintings, and depictions of flowers and birds. Motonobu's legacy is significant. His works are considered masterpieces and have influenced generations of Japanese artists. Museum comparison: For a scroll painting of The Daoist Immortal Huang Chuping, by Kano Motonobu, see the collection of the Honolulu Museum of Art, object number 2844.
Galerie Zacke
Nov. 30, 2024
LIN HEJING
Est: ¥200,000 - ¥300,000
stamped on the lower left scrolled with a box certified by Kosai Okura (1795-1863, ancient writing Appraiser who served Kishu Tokugawa family)
New Art Est-Ouest Auctions
Aug. 20, 2024
Japanese Motonobu Kano (1476) Kokei Sansho Woodblock Print
Est: $50 - $500
DESCRIPTION: Japanese Motonobu Kano (1476) Kokei Sansho Woodblock Print. On paper board. With handwritten provenance on verso. CIRCA: Early 20th Century, possibly older. ORIGIN: Japan DIMENSIONS: H: 8 1/2" W: 11 1/2" CONDITION: With torn paper corners. Unless otherwise stated, all information provided is the opinion of our specialists. Should you have any specific questions regarding the condition of this lot, please use the ask question button or send us an email.
Akiba Galleries
Dec. 08, 2023
Hoopoe on a plum blossom branch
Est: €1,200 - €1,400
Hanging scroll. Ink on paper. Pot seal reading Motonobu. Black lacquered wooden box, inscribed on the lid Baichō zu Motonobu hitsu in makie. Inside a kanteisho by Kohitsu Ryōchū (1656-1736). On the lif pf the box a paper paper of Yamanaka & Co. in Koto with handwritten inscription: Dr. Junghann Franz-Abtstr. 10. Wiesbaden. Germany. 1 Kakemono, painted by Motonobu (#9)
Kunsthaus Lempertz KG
Dec. 08, 2022
KANO MOTONOBU (IM STIL VON), JUROJIN UNTER DER KIEFER
Est: €150 - €300
KANO MOTONOBU (IN THE STYLE OF), JUROJIN UNDER THE PINE Japan, probably Edo period Ink on paper, mounted as hanging roll. 86x24 cm. With red pot-shaped seal lower right and original wooden box. With traces of age, partially damaged and stained. KANO MOTONOBU (IM STIL VON), JUROJIN UNTER DER KIEFER Japan, wohl Edo-Zeit Tusche auf Papier, als Hängerolle montiert. 86x24 cm. Unten rechts mit rotem Topfsiegel, mit originaler Holzkiste. Part. besch. u. fleckig, mit Altersspuren.
Hargesheimer Kunstauktionen Düsseldorf
Jul. 25, 2020
Scroll, Zen Patriarch, 16/17th Century, signed Kano
Est: $3,000 - $4,000
Japanese scroll of a Zen patriarch in suiboku ink on paper, signed and sealed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), possibly from his studio, framed and glazed. Muromachi/Early Edo Period, 16th-17th century. 39 x 27 inches
The Scanlan Collection
Dec. 17, 2019
Scroll, Zen Patriarch, 16/17th Century, signed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559)
Est: $3,000 - $4,000
Japanese scroll of a Zen patriarch in suiboku ink on paper, signed and sealed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), possibly from his studio, framed and glazed. Muromachi/Early Edo Period, 16th-17th century. 39 x 27 inches
The Scanlan Collection
Nov. 05, 2019
Scroll, Zen Patriarch, 16/17th Century, signed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559)
Est: $3,000 - $4,000
Japanese scroll of a Zen patriarch in suiboku ink on paper, signed and sealed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), possibly from his studio, framed and glazed. Muromachi/Early Edo Period, 16th-17th century. 39 x 27 inches
The Scanlan Collection
Aug. 17, 2019
Scroll, Zen Patriarch, signed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559)
Est: $3,000 - $4,000
Japanese scroll of a Zen patriarch in suiboku ink on paper, signed and sealed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), possibly from his studio, framed and glazed. Muromachi/Early Edo Period, 16th-17th century. 39 x 27 inches
The Scanlan Collection
Jun. 14, 2019
MATSUMURA KEIBUN / 松村景文
Est: €200 - €400
MATSUMURA KEIBUN / 松村景文 Japon Encres et couleurs sur feuilles de papier d'orientation portrait. Encadrées à l'européenne. Peuvent fonctionne en pendants. La première donne à voir un oiseau chidori (moineau) parmi plantes. La seconde un échassier. Toutes deux sont signées et portent le cachet de l'artiste (respectivement en bas à droite et en bas à gauche). Dimensions (l'une, à vue) : 117,5 x 46,7 cm BIRDS AND FLOWERS - A SUITE OF TWO (2) WATERCOLOURS AND INKS ON PAPER BY MATSUMURA KEIBUN 松村景文 (1779-1843) Japan
Boisgirard-Antonini
Jun. 14, 2019
PAON – ENCRE ET COULEURS SUR PAPIER ATTRIBUEE A Kanô Motonobu / 狩野元信 (1476-
Est: €1,500 - €3,000
PAON – ENCRE ET COULEURS SUR PAPIER ATTRIBUEE A Kanô Motonobu / 狩野元信 (1476-1559) Japon Encre et couleurs sur feuille de papier d’orientation portrait. Montée en kakemono / kakejiku. Elle donne à voir un paon. Cachet rouge en bas à gauche. Œuvre offerte à la vente dans une boîte double ancienne inscrite d’une expertise. Dimensions (l’œuvre seule) : 116 x 49 cm PEACOCK – AN INK AND COLOURS ON PAPER ATTRIBUTED TO Kanô Motonobu / 狩野元信 (1476-1559) Japan
Boisgirard-Antonini
Apr. 24, 2019
Japanese scroll, Attrib. Motonobu Kano.
Est: $800 - $1,200
A Japanese Kano school scroll with double wooden box and paperwork. Attribute to Kano, Motonobu (Japan, 1476-1559). Ink wash painting. Depicting two ducks in a river near riverbank scene. Red seal l.l. Painting: 8 3/4" x 20 1/4". Scroll paper: 43 1/2" x 25 1/2". Scroll rod length: 27 1/4". Inside box: 2 1/2" x 28 1/4" x 3 1/4". Outside box: 3 1/4" x 29" x 4".
Quinn's Auction Galleries
Jan. 27, 2019
Scroll, Zen Patriarch, signed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559)
Est: $3,000 - $5,000
Japanese scroll of a Zen patriarch in suiboku ink on paper, signed and sealed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), possibly from his studio, framed and glazed. Muromachi/Early Edo Period, 16th-17th century. 39 x 27 inches
The Scanlan Collection
Jan. 19, 2019
Japanese scroll, Landscape, Motonobu
Est: $100 - $200
Japanese scroll, Landscape, ink on paper, lower left with seal Motonobu (referencing Kano Motonobu 1476-1559); painting: 10.5"h x 13.5"w, scroll: 40.5"h x 17.75"w
Clars Auctions
Nov. 04, 2018
Japanese Scroll, Chicken and Hen, by Kano Tsunenobu (1636-1713)
Est: $3,000 - $5,000
This beautiful scroll painting in excellent condition by Kano Tsunenobu (1636-1713), features a white hen and her chick. Scroll size is 59 x 24 .5 inches, image is 18.25 x 18.25 inches. Japan
The Scanlan Collection
Sep. 15, 2018
Japanese scroll, Attrib. Motonobu Kano.
Est: $2,000 - $3,000
A Japanese Kano school scroll with double wooden box and paperwork. Attribute to Kano, Motonobu (Japan, 1476-1559). Ink wash painting. Depicting two ducks in a river near riverbank scene. Red seal l.l. Painting: 8 3/4" x 20 1/4". Scroll paper: 43 1/2" x 25 1/2". Scroll rod length: 27 1/4". Inside box: 2 1/2" x 28 1/4" x 3 1/4". Outside box: 3 1/4" x 29" x 4".
Quinn's Auction Galleries
Jul. 29, 2018
Scroll, Zen Patriarch, signed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559)
Est: $3,000 - $5,000
Japanese scroll of a Zen patriarch in suiboku ink on paper, signed and sealed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), possibly from his studio, framed and glazed. Muromachi/Early Edo Period, 16th-17th century. 39 x 27 inches Japan
The Scanlan Collection
Mar. 27, 2018
AFTER KANO MOTONOBU (JAPANESE, 1476-1559) CALL AFTER GET SPECIALIST OPINION.- specialist believes it is not by Kano Motonobu, but af...
Est: $300 - $500
AFTER KANO MOTONOBU (JAPANESE, 1476-1559) CALL AFTER GET SPECIALIST OPINION.- specialist believes it is not by Kano Motonobu, but after. DUCKS IN LAKE Ink on paper: 9 x 20 1/4 in. Mounted on a hanging scroll
Potomack Company
Jan. 15, 2018
Scroll, Zen Patriarch, signed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559)
Est: $3,000 - $5,000
Japanese scroll of a Zen patriarch in suiboku ink on paper, signed and sealed Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), possibly from his studio, framed and glazed. Muromachi/Early Edo Period, 16th-17th century. 39 x 27 inches Japan
The Scanlan Collection
Nov. 10, 2016
SEAL OF KANO MOTONOBU 狩野元信 (1477-1559) SNOW LANDSCAPE Muromachi Period (133
Est: £100,000 - £150,000
SEAL OF KANO MOTONOBU 狩野元信 (1477-1559) SNOW LANDSCAPE Muromachi Period (1333-1572), early-mid 16th century Kakejiku (hanging scroll), ink on paper in silk mounts, depicting mountains, trees, and a waterfall in winter, a figure with an umbrella advancing up a path at lower left; ivory jiku (roller ends) Red pot seal at lower left Motonobu 元信 Overall: 141 x 63.7cm (55½ x 25 1/8in.) Image: 42.7 x 40.5cm (16¾ x 16in.) (11).
Bonhams
Oct. 30, 2014
KANO MOTONOBU (1476-1559). Japan, 16. Jh., 28x38
Est: CHF2,000 - CHF3,000
KANO MOTONOBU (1476-1559). Japan, 16. Jh., 28x38 cm. Tusche auf Papier. Ein daoistischer Unsterblicher reitet auf seinem Schwert durch die Meereswellen. Siegel. Als Hängerolle auf Seide montiert. Beschriftete Holzbox. With certificate by H. Taniguchi, Kyôto, 1973 A DAOIST IMMORTAL CROSSING THE OCEAN ON A SWORD BY KANO MOTONOBU (1476-1559). Japan, 16th c. 28x38 cm. Ink on paper. Seal. Hanging scroll with silk mounting. Wood box.
Koller Auctions
May. 16, 2012
Attributed to Kano Motonobu (1476 - 1559)
Est: £7,000 - £9,000
Attributed to Kano Motonobu (1476 - 1559) A hanging scroll, ink on fan-shaped paper with a dragon in clouds, sealed Motonobu 57 x 37.5cm. (excluding mount)
Christie's
May. 15, 2012
A gold lacquer five-case inro
Est: £900 - £1,000
By Kiyogawa (family), after Kano Motonobu (1476-1559), 19th century Of upright form, bearing a fundame ground, lacquered with a continuous design of a flowering hibiscus in shades of gold takamakie with kirikane highlights, the interior of nashiji, signed Ko-hogen Motonobu kore no zu, Kiyogawa (Seisen) saku. 9.5cm (3¾in).
Bonhams
Jun. 28, 2009
KANO SCHOOL ATTRIBUTED TO MOTONOBU (POSSIBLY 17TH
Est: $500 - $800
KANO SCHOOL ATTRIBUTED TO MOTONOBU (POSSIBLY 17TH CENTURY), WATERCOLOR, FAN PAINTING. FRAMED AND GLAZED-21 X 29"
William J Jenack Auctioneers
Jun. 09, 2009
KANO MOTONOBU INK DRAWING ON PAPER
Est: $1,000 - $2,000
KANO MOTONOBU (1476-1650) Japan - Kano School framed and glazed suiboku ink on paper - Drawing of a Zen patriarch, sealed with artist's seal - Early 16th century - Condition good - 39''H x 27''W
Pacific Galleries
Mar. 24, 2003
Attributed to Kano Utanosuke (d. ca.1575)
Est: $6,000 - $8,000
Hawk on pine branch Sealed Moin and...nobu Hanging scroll; ink on paper 33 1/8 x 16 5/8in. (84 x 42.2cm.) NOTES Some scholars speculate that Utanosuke is also Kano Yukinobu, the younger brother of Kano Motonobu (1476-1559) but there is no definitive evidence to date. What is clear is that his style is strongly influenced by the early-16th century Kano school, and especially Motonobu. Other paintings attributed to Utanosuke with the same seals as the hanging scroll here are Civet, birds and flowers, a pair of six-panel screens, the right screen now in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, the left in the Suntory Museum, Tokyo; and Three Masters of Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism Tasting Vinegar, a hanging scroll in the Tokyo National Museum.
Christie's