Otagaki Rengetsu Paintings & Artwork for Sale | Otagaki Rengetsu Art Value Price Guide

Jan. 23, 2026
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): FAN PAINTING WITH PLUM BLOSSOMS WITH A WAKA POEM
Est: €400 - €800
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): FAN PAINTING WITH PLUM BLOSSOMS WITH A WAKA POEM By Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875), signed and dated Rengetsu hachiju-sai [Rengetsu at the age of 80] Japan, dated 1870, Meiji period (1868-1912) Ink on gold paper. Mounted as a hanging scroll within a silk brocade frame, with lacquered wood jikusaki (roller ends). The fan-shaped painting depicting a plum flower and a bud beside a waka poem. Inscriptions: Signed to the lower left side of the poem, Hachiju sai Rengetsu (Rengetsu at the age of 80). The poem reads: 鶯の Uguisu no [Is the warbler’s] つまやこもると tsuma ya komoru to [lover hidden there?] ゆかしきは yukashiki wa [I’d like to peek] 梅咲かこむ ume saki kakomu [into the plum blossoms] 庵の八重がき io no yaegaki [ringing this rustic hut] SIZE (image) 17 x 49.5 cm, SIZE (incl. mounting) 129.5 x 66 cm Condition: Excellent condition with only minor abrasions and wear. With a tomobako storage box and a cardboard box with a paper label. Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) was a Japanese Buddhist nun and poet who also excelled in pottery, calligraphy, and martial arts. She was born into a samurai family and married twice, but experienced many personal tragedies, including the deaths of her husbands and children. After burying all her loved ones, she became a Buddhist nun at the age of 33. She influenced other artists, including Tomioka Tessai. Auction comparison: Compare a related scroll painting, by Otagaki Rengetsu, at Christie’s, Japanese Art & Design, 18 June 2003, London, lot 295 (sold for GBP 3,824).
Galerie Zacke
Nov. 04, 2025
A Japanese stoneware jar by Otagaki Rengetsu (1791 - 1875)
Est: £400 - £600
A Japanese stoneware jar by Otagaki Rengetsu (1791 - 1875) Edo/Meiji period The ribbed oviform vessel covered in slip and painted with a calligraphic inscription, signed 'Rengetsu', 23.5cm high, the interior with metal cylindrical lining. Otagaki Rengetsu (1791 - 1875) was a Buddhist nun, born of the Samurai class, who renounced public life at ae 33, shaving her head and taking the name of Rengetsu, Lotus Moon. She is widely acknowledged as one of the greatest poets of the 19th century. She was also a skilled painter, calligrapher and potter. She created a number of vessels for tea and sake drinking, often adorned with her poetry. Vases such as the present lot are much rarer.
Roseberys
Jul. 24, 2025
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): FAN PAINTING WITH PLUM BLOSSOMS WITH A WAKA POEM
Est: €300 - €600
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): FAN PAINTING WITH PLUM BLOSSOMS WITH A WAKA POEM By Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875), signed and dated Rengetsu hachiju-sai [Rengetsu at the age of 80] Japan, dated 1870, Meiji period (1868-1912) Ink on gold paper. Mounted as a hanging scroll within a silk brocade frame, with lacquered wood jikusaki (roller ends). The fan-shaped painting depicting a plum flower and a bud beside a waka poem. Inscriptions: Signed to the lower left side of the poem, Hachiju sai Rengetsu (Rengetsu at the age of 80). The poem reads: 鶯の Uguisu no [Is the warbler’s] つまやこもると tsuma ya komoru to [lover hidden there?] ゆかしきは yukashiki wa [I’d like to peek] 梅咲かこむ ume saki kakomu [into the plum blossoms] 庵の八重がき io no yaegaki [ringing this rustic hut] SIZE (image) 17 x 49.5 cm, SIZE (incl. mounting) 129.5 x 66 cm Condition: Excellent condition with only minor abrasions and wear. With a tomobako storage box and a cardboard box with a paper label. Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) was a Japanese Buddhist nun and poet who also excelled in pottery, calligraphy, and martial arts. She was born into a samurai family and married twice, but experienced many personal tragedies, including the deaths of her husbands and children. After burying all her loved ones, she became a Buddhist nun at the age of 33. She influenced other artists, including Tomioka Tessai. Auction comparison: Compare a related scroll painting, by Otagaki Rengetsu, at Christie’s, Japanese Art & Design, 18 June 2003, London, lot 295 (sold for GBP 3,824).
Galerie Zacke
Jan. 23, 2025
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): FAN PAINTING WITH PLUM BLOSSOMS WITH A WAKA POEM
Est: €300 - €600
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): FAN PAINTING WITH PLUM BLOSSOMS WITH A WAKA POEM By Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875), signed and dated Rengetsu hachiju-sai [Rengetsu at the age of 80] Japan, dated 1870, Meiji period (1868-1912) Ink on gold paper. Mounted as a hanging scroll within a silk brocade frame, with lacquered wood jikusaki (roller ends). The fan-shaped painting depicting a plum flower and a bud beside a waka poem. Inscriptions: Signed to the lower left side of the poem, Hachiju sai Rengetsu (Rengetsu at the age of 80). The poem reads: 鶯の Uguisu no [Is the warbler’s] つまやこもると tsuma ya komoru to [lover hidden there?] ゆかしきは yukashiki wa [I’d like to peek] 梅咲かこむ ume saki kakomu [into the plum blossoms] 庵の八重がき io no yaegaki [ringing this rustic hut] SIZE (image) 17 x 49.5 cm, SIZE (incl. mounting) 129.5 x 66 cm Condition: Excellent condition with only minor abrasions and wear. With a tomobako storage box and a cardboard box with a paper label. Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) was a Japanese Buddhist nun and poet who also excelled in pottery, calligraphy, and martial arts. She was born into a samurai family and married twice, but experienced many personal tragedies, including the deaths of her husbands and children. After burying all her loved ones, she became a Buddhist nun at the age of 33. She influenced other artists, including Tomioka Tessai. Auction comparison: Compare a related scroll painting, by Otagaki Rengetsu, at Christie’s, Japanese Art & Design, 18 June 2003, London, lot 295 (sold for GBP 3,824).
Galerie Zacke
Jan. 23, 2025
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): BIRD WITH A WAKA POEM
Est: €300 - €600
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): BIRD WITH A WAKA POEM By Ōtagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875), signed Rengetsu Japan, dated 1872 Ink and watercolor on paper, mounted as a hanging scroll with paper in muted green and grey tones, with lacquered wooden roller ends. This scroll features a finely painted small bird perched near delicate bamboo stalks, accompanied by a gently brushed poem in Rengetsu’s distinctive cursive script. The poem's graceful characters evoke a sense of tranquility, complementing the subtle beauty of the natural scene below. Inscriptions: The calligraphy is an original poem composed and inscribed by Rengetsu, reflecting on themes of nature and fleeting beauty. The signature reads 蓮月 (Rengetsu) and the dating states ‘at 81 years old’ corresponding to 1872. Dimensions: Image size: 102.5 x 30 cm; size including mounting: 163 x 40.5 cm. Condition: shows extensive creases and browning, minor tears. Overall, still presenting well. With a wooden tomobako storage box. Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) was a Japanese Buddhist nun and poet who also excelled in pottery, calligraphy, and martial arts. She was born into a samurai family and married twice, but experienced many personal tragedies, including the deaths of her husbands and children. After burying all her loved ones, she became a Buddhist nun at the age of 33. She influenced other artists, including Tomioka Tessai.
Galerie Zacke
Jan. 23, 2025
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): KYUSU AND TWO TEA BOWLS WITH A WAKA POEM
Est: €300 - €600
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): KYUSU AND TWO TEA BOWLS WITH A WAKA POEM By Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Ink and watercolor on paper. Mounted as a hanging scroll within a silk brocade frame, with black lacquer jikusaki (roller ends). Depicting a kyusu with two teapots and a waka poem to the left side. Inscriptions: The calligraphy is a poem inscribed by Rengetsu, expressing a subtle reflection on the tranquility and joy found in the act of sharing tea. The inscription on the storage box reads 蓮月尼筆自画賛 (Rengetsu Ni hitsu, Jiga-san), meaning "Painted and inscribed by Nun Rengetsu" With an original inscribed wooden tomobako storage box. Dimensions: Image size: 29 x 41 cm; size including mounting: 121 x 44 cm. Condition: Excellent condition with only minor traces of wear. Provenance: Dutch collection. Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) was a Japanese Buddhist nun and poet who also excelled in pottery, calligraphy, and martial arts. She was born into a samurai family and married twice, but experienced many personal tragedies, including the deaths of her husbands and children. After burying all her loved ones, she became a Buddhist nun at the age of 33. She influenced other artists, including Tomioka Tessai. Auction comparison: Compare a related scroll painting by Otagaki Rengetsu, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art including two masterpieces by Kitaoji Rosanjin (1883-1959), 7 November 2013, London, lot 338 (sold for GBP 2,000).
Galerie Zacke
Dec. 06, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) AND MORI KANSAI (1814-1894): PAINTING OF A CUCKOO WITH A WAKA POEM
Est: €800 - €1,500
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) AND MORI KANSAI (1814-1894): PAINTING OF A CUCKOO WITH A WAKA POEM By Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) and Mori Kansai (1814-1894), signed Rengetsu and signed Kansai Mori Koshuku with two seals Japan, late 19th century Ink on paper. Mounted as a hanging scroll within a silk brocade frame, with stag antler jikusaki (roller ends). A collaboration between Rengetsu and Mori Kansai, depicting a hototogisu (lesser cuckoo), flying above a waka poem by Rengetsu. Inscriptions: Signed Rengetsu to the lower left side of the poem. To the lower right signed by Mori Kansai 寛斎森公粛冩 Kansai Mori Koshuku utsusu and with two seals 寛斎＆椿公粛印 ‘Kansai’ and ‘Tsubaki Koshuku in’. The poem reads: おくれそね Okure sone [Don't fall behind!] かけよかけよと kakeyo kakeyo to [Run! Run!] 神山の kamiyama no [A little cuckoo] ほととぎすさへ hototogisu sae [sporting about Kamiyama] 鳴わたるなり naki wataru nari [also cries out] SIZE (image) 99 x 29 cm, SIZE (incl. mounting) 176 x 45.5 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor traces of wear such as tiny stains or creases. Inside a tomobako storage box with inscribed paper labels. Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) was a Japanese Buddhist nun and poet who also excelled in pottery, calligraphy, and martial arts. She was born into a samurai family and married twice, but experienced many personal tragedies, including the deaths of her husbands and children. After burying all her loved ones, she became a Buddhist nun at the age of 33. She influenced other artists, including Tomioka Tessai. Mori Kansai (1814–1894) was a renowned Japanese painter of the late Edo and early Meiji periods, celebrated for his contributions to the Shijō school of painting, which blended traditional Japanese and Chinese styles with naturalistic elements. Born in the Yamashiro Province (now part of Kyoto), Kansai trained under the master painter Mori Tetsuzan, developing his own distinct style characterized by delicate brushwork and serene landscapes. He became a prominent figure in the Kyoto art world, serving as a court painter and influencing the artistic transition during Japan's modernization in the Meiji era. His works, which often depicted nature, animals, and historical themes, remain influential in the world of Japanese art.
Galerie Zacke
Dec. 06, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): SELF PORTRAIT WITH A WAKA POEM
Est: €800 - €1,500
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875): SELF PORTRAIT WITH A WAKA POEM By Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) Japan, 19th century, late Edo period (1615-1868) – early Meiji period (1868-1912) Ink on paper. Mounted as a hanging scroll within a silk brocade border, with wooden jikusaki (roller ends). Depicting a self-portrait of Rengetsu as a Hakuzosu, the so-called fox-priest, with a Waka poem to the upper part. Inscriptions: The poem reads ‘In the field of Sagano - at twilight - tail in the pampas grass - will it seem a sleeve’. SIZE (image) 88.5 x 24 cm, SIZE (incl. mounting) 165.5 x 31 cm Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear such as slight creases and small stains. With a tomobako storage box, inside paper with description (in English) by a previous owner and a printed leaflet about the poem and subject (in Japanese). Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) was a Japanese Buddhist nun and poet who also excelled in pottery, calligraphy, and martial arts. She was born into a samurai family and married twice, but experienced many personal tragedies, including the deaths of her husbands and children. After burying all her loved ones, she became a Buddhist nun at the age of 33. She influenced other artists, including Tomioka Tessai. Auction comparison: Compare a related scroll painting, by Otagaki Rengetsu, at Sotheby's, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 29 September 2022, London, lot 15 (sold for GBP 2,520).
Galerie Zacke
Dec. 06, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU: A GLAZED MIZUSASHI WITH LACQUERED WOOD COVER AND POEM
Est: €1,500 - €3,000
OTAGAKI RENGETSU: A GLAZED MIZUSASHI WITH LACQUERED WOOD COVER AND POEM By Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875), Signed Rengetsu Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The mizusashi (water container) of barrel form, incised with a poem and covered in a cream glaze suffused with fine crackles save for the base and upper rim. The cover of concave form and roiro ground with a short handle. Signed RENGETSU. Inscriptions: At Yashima Bay, among warriors, floating on the evening tide, what cannot be swept away, the crescent moon. (Mononofu no, Yashima no ura no, yuunami ni, nagare mo ae nu yumihari no tsuki). HEIGHT 11.6 cm With a padded storage box. (2) Condition: Very good condition with minor wear. The lacquer cover with light wear, minor flaking, and small blisters. Provenance: Robert C. Eldred, Massachusetts, United States, 1989. The James and Marilynn Alsdorf Collection, Chicago, Illinois, acquired from the above. The cover and interior each with an old label, ‘EL-86’. The storage box with a description, ‘Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) Mizusashi (Water Container) with Lacquer Lid’, and dated ‘19th century’. A copy of a letter written and signed James W. Alsdorf, dated 23 August 1989, addressed to Robert C. Eldred, confirming the provenance above, accompanies this lot. James and Marilynn Alsdorf got married in 1952 and built a life that was centered on art, philanthropy and family. Studying and collecting art was their all-consuming passion, and it took them all over the world. Their spirit of adventure was unique; they went places that few collectors at the time were curious and confident enough to explore. As their interests diversified, so did their collection. ‘They were not strategic in their collecting,’ recalls Bridget Alsdorf, the couple’s granddaughter. ‘They were guided by what fascinated them and gave them pleasure, by knowledge and instinct. They were an incredible team.’ As well as being great collectors, the Alsdorfs were loyal supporters of museums and cultural institutions across Chicago and the wider United States, including the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., the Leigh Block Museum of Art at Northwestern University and the Art Institute of Chicago. James Alsdorf served as Chairman of the AIC from 1975 to 1978, and Marilynn sat on various committees. In 1967, the Alsdorfs joined other prominent Chicago collectors, including, Edwin and Lindy Bergman and Robert and Beatrice Mayer, in founding the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, an institution to which they would provide extensive financial and personal leadership. After James’s passing in 1990, Marilynn, who was known as ‘the queen of the Chicago arts community’, continued to build upon her husband’s legacy in art and philanthropy, making a transformative bequest to the AIC in 1997, and funding a curatorial position in Indian and Southeast Asian Art at the AIC in 2006. Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) was in her lifetime a Buddhist nun, poet, calligrapher, potter and painter. After enduring the tragic loss of two husbands and all her children, at only 33 years old, she shaved her head and became a nun, at which time she adopted the name Rengetsu. In later years she began to make pottery, which she then inscribed with her own waka (31-syllable classical poetry) and sold to support herself. Museum comparison: Compare a related teapot with similar inscription by the same artist, dated to the mid-19th century, in The Walters Arts Museum, accession number 49.891. Auction comparison: Compare a related water vessel with similar inscription by the same artist, at Christie’s, The Art of Asia, 8 December 2016, New York, lot 47 (sold for USD 3,750).
Galerie Zacke
Nov. 06, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (JAPANESE, 1791-1875), A JAR AND COVER, EDO PERIOD, 19TH CENTURY
Est: £300 - £500
the ovoid body covered overall with a finley crackled cream and brown glaze, decorated in black enamel with a poem, the dished cover with loop handle glazed cream,14.2cm high, Japanese wood box
Olympia Auctions
Nov. 06, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (JAPANESE, 1791-1875), A LARGE STONEWARE BRAZIER, EDO PERIOD, 19TH CENTURY
Est: £500 - £700
the ovoid body rising from a flat base to an incurved rim, covered overall in a crackled cream glaze suffused with bubbles, decorated in black enamel with a poem, the similarly glazed domed cover pierced with a simple floral motif and a medallion, 28cm high
Olympia Auctions
Nov. 06, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (JAPANESE, 1791-1875), A LARGE STONEWARE FLOWER VASE, EDO PERIOD, 19TH CENTURY
Est: £800 - £1,200
the tall slender baluster body set with a pair of lug handles at the shoulder, covered overall in a thick pale brown glaze and decorated in black enamel with a poem, 51cm high
Olympia Auctions
Nov. 06, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (JAPANESE, 1791-1875), A LARGE STONEWARE FLOWER VASE, EDO PERIOD, 19TH CENTURY
Est: £800 - £1,200
tha tall slender bauster body set with a pair of lug handles at the shoulder, covered overall in a thick pale cream glaze and decorated in black enamel with a poem, 49.5cm high, Japanese wood box
Olympia Auctions
May. 16, 2024
Otagaki Rengetsu (attrib.), scroll
Est: $400 - $600
Attributed to Otagaki Rengetsu (Japanese, 1791-1875), letter mounted as a scroll, ink on laid paper, silk borders, the whole mounted on silk backing, 12.5"h x 20.25"w (letter sheet), 47"h x 21"w (overall)
Millea Bros Ltd
May. 15, 2024
Otagaki Rengetsu (1791 - 1875)
Est: £600 - £800
Otagaki Rengetsu (1791 - 1875) A Japanese painting, self portrait of Rengetsu with a Waka poem, transcription reads: in the field of Sagano, at twilight, in the pampas grass, will it seem a sleeve, 89 x 23.5cm, with a Japanese box.
Roseberys
May. 14, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875), A BOWL, EDO PERIOD, 19TH CENTURY
Est: £1,500 - £2,500
the deep rounded sides decorated around the interior and exterior in black enamel on a crackled glaze with a poem and further to the interior with a bird in flight, 17.5cm diameter, tomobako Provenance: Acquired from Yumekoubou, Kyoto, Japan.
Olympia Auctions
May. 14, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875), A CHAWAN, EDO PERIOD, 19TH CENTURY
Est: £800 - £1,200
the irregular deep rounded sides incised around the exterior with a poem and covered overall in a crackled ivory glaze, 12cm diameter, tomobako
Olympia Auctions
May. 14, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875), A CHAWAN, EDO PERIOD, 19TH CENTURY
Est: £1,200 - £1,800
the irregular deep rounded sides covered overall in a crackled ivory glaze and decorated around the exterior in black enamel with a poem and a pine branch,11.5cm diameter, tomobako Provenance: Acquired from Yokohama Chishin, Japan.
Olympia Auctions
May. 14, 2024
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875), A CHAWAN, EDO PERIOD, 19TH CENTURY
Est: £800 - £1,200
the irregular deep rounded sides incised around the exterior with a poem and covered overall in a crackled ivory glaze, 10.5cm diameter, tomobako Provenance: Acquired from Yokohama Chishin, Japan.
Olympia Auctions
Mar. 27, 2024
Otagaki Rengetsu
Est: $2,000 - $3,000
Otagaki Rengetsu (Japanese, 1791-1875) Bridge and Maples (Toga-no-o-Valley) ink and color on paper, hanging scroll Image 12 x 16 in., 30.5 x 40.6 cm. Property from a Private Collection, Chicago, Illinois
Hindman
Mar. 27, 2024
Otagaki Rengetsu
Est: $1,000 - $2,000
Otagaki Rengetsu (Japanese, 1791-1875) Mizusashi (Water Container) with Lacquer Lid 19th Century incised and glazed earthenware, inscribed in cursive script by the artist. Height 4 5/8 x diameter 5 in., 11.75 x 12.7 cm. Property from a Private Collection, Chicago, Illinois
Hindman
Nov. 03, 2023
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) TALL FLOWER STONEWARE VASE
Est: £1,200 - £1,800
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) TALL FLOWER STONEWARE VASE ????? ????? ?? the elegantly potted cylindrical body inscribed with poem, the wide neck flanked by two upturned loop handles, surmounted with everted rim, covered overall in a ivory tinged glaze with fine craquelure, with inscribed tomobako (49.5cm high) Qty: (1) Provenance: Private collection, London; acquired from Yumekoubou, Kyoto, Japan Note: ?tagaki Rengetsu is probably the most famous female artist of the 19th century in Japan, especially known for her excellent skills in calligraphy and pottery. She was born the illegitimate daughter of a samurai from the T?d? family. Soon after her birth, she was adopted by ?tagaki Mitsuhasa, who worked at Chion'in, an important temple of the J?do (Pure Land) school in Ky?to. In 1798, after losing her mother and brother, she was sent to serve as a lady-in-waiting at Kameoka Castle in Tanba, where she was taught classical poetry, calligraphy, and martial arts. At only 33 years of age, she had already experienced some fateful years in her life, losing two husbands and all five of her children. She then decided to shave her hair and take Buddhist vows, taking the name Rengetsu (Lotus Moon). During this time, she lived with her stepfather near Chion'in Temple. After his death in 1832, Rengetsu began making her extraordinary pottery, which she usually inscribed with her own waka (31-syllable classical poetry) and sold to support herself. With her unique combination of pottery, calligraphy, and poetry, Rengetsu gained recognition far beyond the borders of Ky?to during her lifetime.
Lyon & Turnbull
Nov. 03, 2023
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) SET OF FIVE INSRIBED STONEWARE PLATES
Est: £1,000 - £1,500
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) SET OF FIVE INSRIBED STONEWARE PLATES ????? ???? ??????? each inscribed on the interior with poem, covered in a ivory tinged glaze with fine craquelure (diameters: 12.6cm to 13cm) Qty: (5) Provenance: Private collection, London; acquired from Wutai Co. Ltd., Yufu City, Oita Prefecture, Japan Note: ?tagaki Rengetsu is probably the most famous female artist of the 19th century in Japan, especially known for her excellent skills in calligraphy and pottery. She was born the illegitimate daughter of a samurai from the T?d? family. Soon after her birth, she was adopted by ?tagaki Mitsuhasa, who worked at Chion'in, an important temple of the J?do (Pure Land) school in Ky?to. In 1798, after losing her mother and brother, she was sent to serve as a lady-in-waiting at Kameoka Castle in Tanba, where she was taught classical poetry, calligraphy, and martial arts. At only 33 years of age, she had already experienced some fateful years in her life, losing two husbands and all five of her children. She then decided to shave her hair and take Buddhist vows, taking the name Rengetsu (Lotus Moon). During this time, she lived with her stepfather near Chion'in Temple. After his death in 1832, Rengetsu began making her extraordinary pottery, which she usually inscribed with her own waka (31-syllable classical poetry) and sold to support herself. With her unique combination of pottery, calligraphy, and poetry, Rengetsu gained recognition far beyond the borders of Ky?to during her lifetime.
Lyon & Turnbull
Nov. 03, 2023
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) SET OF FIVE INSCRIBED STONEWARE SAKE CUPS
Est: £800 - £1,200
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) SET OF FIVE INSCRIBED STONEWARE SAKE CUPS ????? ???? ??????? each carved on the exterior with poem, covered in a ivory tinged glaze with fine craquelure, with inscribed and sealed tomobako (heights: 3.7cm to 3.8cm) Qty: (6) Provenance: Private collection, London; acquired from Ura Art Museum Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan Note: ?tagaki Rengetsu is probably the most famous female artist of the 19th century in Japan, especially known for her excellent skills in calligraphy and pottery. She was born the illegitimate daughter of a samurai from the T?d? family. Soon after her birth, she was adopted by ?tagaki Mitsuhasa, who worked at Chion'in, an important temple of the J?do (Pure Land) school in Ky?to. In 1798, after losing her mother and brother, she was sent to serve as a lady-in-waiting at Kameoka Castle in Tanba, where she was taught classical poetry, calligraphy, and martial arts. At only 33 years of age, she had already experienced some fateful years in her life, losing two husbands and all five of her children. She then decided to shave her hair and take Buddhist vows, taking the name Rengetsu (Lotus Moon). During this time, she lived with her stepfather near Chion'in Temple. After his death in 1832, Rengetsu began making her extraordinary pottery, which she usually inscribed with her own waka (31-syllable classical poetry) and sold to support herself. With her unique combination of pottery, calligraphy, and poetry, Rengetsu gained recognition far beyond the borders of Ky?to during her lifetime.
Lyon & Turnbull
Jul. 24, 2023
A JAPANESE TANZAKU SCROLL BY OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1895) EDO (1603-1868) OR MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)
Est: $800 - $1,200
A JAPANESE TANZAKU SCROLL BY OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1895) EDO (1603-1868) OR MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912) Consisting of a tanzaku (poetry card) with waka poetry over gold-speckled washi paper by Rengetsu reading: 'The blood from swords that battled seen in the red leaves of deep autumn here in the Miyoshino mountains.' Mounted in a high quality scroll mounting with gold-wrapped brocade details. Together with a Japanese wooden box and and card outer sheath. The tanzaku 36cm high, 6cm wide. The scroll 154cm high, 31.5cm wide at the rollers
Leonard Joel
May. 18, 2023
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) AND OISHI JUNKYO (1888-1968) Waka Poems One Meiji era (1868-1912) and one Showa era (1926-1989) (5)
Est: £800 - £1,000
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) AND OISHI JUNKYO (1888-1968) Waka Poems One Meiji era (1868-1912) and one Showa era (1926-1989) Two kakejiku (hanging scrolls), each ink and slight colours on paper, the first depicting two butterflies on the top right corner fluttering around a waka poem by Rengetsu, signed Rengetsu with a plain wood storage box and card slip case, overall: 130cm x 55cm (51 1/8in x 21 5/8in); image: 30.3cm x 42.9cm (11 7/8in x 16 7/8in); the second depicting two maple leaves beside a waka poem, signed Junkyo ga with a wood tomobako storage box, titled on the outside the lid Koyo (Autumn leaves) and inscribed on the inside Matsuda Masao sensei no tame, Junkyo ga, (Painted for Mr Matsuda Masao by Junkyo), overall: 124cm x 49cm; the image: 34cmx 44.5cm (13 5/8in x 17½in). (5).
Bonhams
Mar. 21, 2023
A SET OF FIVE GLAZED STONEWARE DISH OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) 5 7/8 in.
Est: $2,000 - $3,000
A SET OF FIVE GLAZED STONEWARE DISH OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) 5 7/8 in. (15 cm.) diam. each approx.
Christie's
Mar. 06, 2023
A PAIR OF JAPANESE INSCRIBED TOKKURI BY OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912), DATED 1871
Est: $4,500 - $5,500
A PAIR OF JAPANESE INSCRIBED TOKKURI BY OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912), DATED 1871 Each of bottle form in glazed, pinch-potted Kyoyaki clay, inscribed with waka poetry reading 'Sasu sao mo, nageyari bushi ni, utau nari, tsuki ni utsururu, amo no tsuri bune. Rengetsu. Hachijyu-ichi sai' (Called by the beautiful moon, I launch my boat and singing out of tune, set out a fishing line. Rengetsu, age 81). Together with its tomobako (original signed Japanese wooden box) inscribed 'Fujimi shi no konomi ni kisuru' (on Mr Fujimi's request), and with certification by Tokuda Koen. Double boxed, with original invoice and certificate of authenticity from Bachmann Eckenstein. The larger 16cm high, 10cm diameter PROVENANCE: Private Collection, Kyoto. Bachmann Eckenstein Japanese Art, Basel, Switzerland, 2009. Inv. no. 1313. Private Collection, Melbourne. EXHIBITIONS: Black Robe White Mist: art of the Japanese Buddhist nun Rengetsu, National Gallery of Australia, 8 Sep 2007—27 Jan 2008. LITERATURE: 'Black Robe White Mist: art of the Japanese Buddhist nun Rengetsu', National Gallery of Australia exhibition catalogue, Melanie Eastburn, Lucie Folan, Robyn Maxwell (ed.), 2007, no.96, ill. p.78. OTHER NOTES: Tokuda Koen (b.1935) was the head Priest of Jinko-in Temple (a Shingon Buddhist temple in Kyoto), and the main authenticator of Rengetsu's works in modern times.
Leonard Joel
Mar. 06, 2023
A JAPANESE INSCRIBED CUP BY OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) EDO PERIOD (1603-1868)
Est: $1,200 - $1,800
A JAPANESE INSCRIBED CUP BY OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) EDO PERIOD (1603-1868) Pinch potted in Kyoyaki clay, the unglazed base modelled as the base and stem of a lotus leaf, with fine underglaze iron brown waka poetry. Signed Rengetsu. Together with an inscribed Japanese wooden box with authentication on the underside of the lid (unread). 8.5cm high, 8cm diameter
Leonard Joel
Dec. 03, 2022
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875), japanisches Kakemono
Est: -
Tusche auf Papier, Tanzaku mit Waka über ¨Nacht im Freien¨, Edo-Periode (19. Jahrhundert), ca. 25x145cm, Motivmaß ca. 6x36cm, in japanischer Holzbox mit älteren Papieraufklebern, aus norddeutscher Sammlung, mit Expertise
Auktionshaus Rotherbaum OHG
Oct. 14, 2022
Otagaki Rengetsu, chawan tea bowl
Est: $100 - $150
Otagaki Rengetsu (Japanese, 1701-1875), glazed pottery bowl incised with poem in Japanese characters, 3.25"h x 4"dia, in wooden storage box, 4.25"h x 5.5"squ
Millea Bros Ltd
Jun. 23, 2022
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (JAPANESE B.1791-D.1875)
Est: $500 - $700
Calligraphy Ink on paper, mounted as a hanging scroll (H: 15 7/8 in.; W: 21 5/8 in (image)) PROVENANCE: Property from a private collection, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Freeman's | Hindman
Apr. 13, 2022
Otagaki Rengetsu 太田垣蓮月书法 (Japanese b.1791-d.1875)
Est: $1,000 - $1,500
Otagaki Rengetsu 太田垣蓮月书法 (Japanese b.1791-d.1875) Calligraphy Ink on paper, mounted as a hanging scroll (H: 15 7/8 in.; W: 21 5/8 in (image)) Qty: (1) PROVENANCE: Property from a private collection, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Freeman's | Hindman
Mar. 23, 2022
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) AND KIYOMIZU ROKUBEI (1820-1883) Long-handled Kettle and CalligraphyEdo period (1615-1868) or Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th century
Est: $1,000 - $1,500
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) AND KIYOMIZU ROKUBEI (1820-1883) Long-handled Kettle and Calligraphy Edo period (1615-1868) or Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th century Hanging scroll brushed in ink with a poetic inscription by Rengetsu above a long-handled kettle by Rokubei, signed Rengetsu and Rokubei and sealed Kiyo With a wood tomobako storage box 39 x 10in (99.1 x 25.5cm) For further information on this lot please visit the Bonhams website
Bonhams
Oct. 14, 2021
Otagaki Rengetsu Pottery Teapot
Est: $500 - $700
Signed 'Rengetsu' and incised with poem; together with a wood box inscribed 'made by Rengetsu, old nun, small teapot' and 'poen Knotononi ketu saku, attested by Mitsukuni'. 2 1/2 x 3 3/4 x 3 1/2 in.
STAIR
Oct. 14, 2021
Otagaki Rengetsu Pottery Bowl and Cover
Est: $800 - $1,200
Signed 'Rengetsu', inscribed with poem; together with box inscribed 'Hand made by Rengetsu, Clay pot'. 5 1/4 x 7 1/4 x 7 in.
STAIR
Oct. 14, 2021
Otagaki Rengetsu Small Glazed Pottery Teapot with Lotus Form Cover
Est: $600 - $800
Signed '83 years old, Rengetsu', body incised with a poem; together with a later wood box, unsigned. 3 x 5 x 4 1/4 in.
STAIR
Oct. 14, 2021
Otagaki Rengetsu Glazed Pottery Teapot
Est: $700 - $900
Incised with poem; together with a wood box. 3 1/2 x 5 1/2 x 6 in.
STAIR
Oct. 14, 2021
Otagaki Rengetsu Japanese Pottery Miniature Teapot
Est: $500 - $700
Incised with poem in characters; together with a wood box. The teapot 3 x 4 x 3 3/4 in.
STAIR
Oct. 14, 2021
Otagaki Rengetsu Teapot
Est: $500 - $700
Signed 'Rengetsu' and incised with poem. 2 x 4 x 4 in.
STAIR
Oct. 14, 2021
Otagaki Rengetsu Pottery Water Jar Mizusashi with a Lacquer Cover
Est: $800 - $1,200
Signed 'Rengetsu', incised with poem; with later wood box inscribed 'Rengetsu Mizusashi'. 5 1/2 x 6 1/2 x 6 in.
STAIR
Oct. 14, 2021
Otagaki Rengetsu Pottery Lotus Teapot
Est: $600 - $800
Signed '83 Rengetsu', incised with poem. 2 1/2 x 5 x 4 1/2 in.
STAIR
Sep. 22, 2021
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) A hanging scroll with a poemEdo period (1615-1868), circa 1867
Est: $1,500 - $2,500
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (1791-1875) A hanging scroll with a poem Edo period (1615-1868), circa 1867 Kakejiku (hanging scroll) painted in ink on paper with a kyoka poem Ukarekite / hana no tsuyu ni / nemuru nari / ko wa daga yume no / kochoo naruran (Sporting and sleeping / among the dew / in a field of flowers / In whose dream / is this butterfly?), signed Rengetsu nanajunanasai (Rengetsu at the age of 77) With a wood tomobako storage box 9 1/4 x 11 7/8in (23.5 x 30.2cm) For further information on this lot please visit the Bonhams website
Bonhams
Jan. 22, 2018
A bamboo and paper folding fan (?gi) in scribed by the Buddhist Nun Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875)
Est: €350 - €550
Bamboo and paper folding fan (?gi) inscribed by the Buddhist nun Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) with one of her waka-poems: Wakaba ni waureshiki koto okiku mo yoshiuki koto kikademiminashi mo yoshi:Biography of Otagaki RengetsuWhen thirty-three years old Otagaki Nobu had already buried two husbands and two children. She renounced the world and became a nun and used from then on the name Rengetsu (Lotus-Moon). She did not enter a convent but lived on her own at the precincts of a number of temples. Gradually she lived the life of a recluse literati sustaining herself with calligraphies (written in a very fine hand with a thin brush) of her own waka-poems occasionally accompanied by a small drawing. Although an able poet, her waka-poems which were later gathered in the only book that appeared during her life (Ama no karumo, 1870) are rather traditional and continue the heritage of a thousand years of waka-poetry.More remarkable was her pottery which became a huge success, so much so that it was said that eventually most people in Kyoto owned one of her piece. She mainly made tea bowls (chawan) for chanoyu. These bowls are rather large as tea is made with a tea whisk and tea sets consisting of a small tea pot, five small tea cups and a water cooler (looking as if made from lotus leaves) used in sencha tea drinking. This is a far more informal form of enjoying tea than the tea ceremony chanoyu. She decorated her tea ware also with her own poems, written with a brush but more often carved in the clay. She also made other types of pottery such as vases or water pots.When around sixty years old, she became acquainted with the young Tomioka Tessai (1837-1924) who came to live with her as a kind of pageboy. When she once again moved in 1862, she left her small house to him though they still worked together. When she turned seventy-five she started to live at a house at the Jink?in in the north of Kyoto which turned out to be her last abode.Around 1860 copies of her work appeared on the market. It was rumoured that she was often so kind to help forgers when they had difficulties with her handwriting and wrote herself poems on fake pottery!Eventually Tomioka Tessai who painted the best known portrait of Rengetsu became the last great literati painter of Japan, known for his paintings in a very individual style often accompanied by Chinese poems or an inscription in Chinese.Origin: JapanPeriod: 1791-1875Sizes: 43.50 cm. H x 26.00 cm. D17.13 in. H x 10.24 in. D
Oriental Art Auctions
Aug. 26, 2017
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (JAPAN, 1791-1875)
Est: $1,500 - $2,000
OTAGAKI RENGETSU (JAPAN, 1791-1875) Japanese Hanging Scroll, "Waka" by Otagaki Rengetsu, based on poem by Masaomi Ban (1855-1931): "Look back; Feel like; This floating world; Storm with flower; Dawn in Spring". Watercolor on paper, with calligraphy, on paper mount, 14 1/4" x 19 1/2" image on 51" x 19 1/2" scroll. Very good condition, a few light stains to mount. Purchased from Shoichiro Mizutani, Kyoto, April, 1984.
Thomaston Place Auction Galleries
Mar. 18, 2017
OTAGAKI RENGETSU JAPAN, 1791-1875 | Eggplant and Poem
Est: $3,000 - $5,000
AUBERGINES AND A POEM ink on paper, kakemono signed Nanajumisai Rengetsu gasho
Sotheby's
May. 08, 2016
Two Fine Japanese Sake Cups & a Tea Bowl, [3],
Est: $500 - $700
Two Fine Japanese Sake Cups & a Tea Bowl, [3], two Sake Cups by the Japanese Potter Rengetsu Otagaki (1791-1875), both have a 31 syllable Japanese poem in a cream glaze; an old Tea Bowl of good form with Chinese characters on a cream glaze, Meiji Period Provenance: Todd Barlin Collection. 6 x 4 cm, 6.6 x 7 cm
Theodore Bruce Auctioneers & Valuers
Oct. 15, 2014
AUBERGINES
Est: £1,500 - £2,000
Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) and Tomioka Tessai (1836-1924) Aubergines Hanging scroll, ink on paper, two aubergines painted by Tessai and with calligraphy on the same theme by Rengetsu, signed Rengetsu nanaju-go sai [Rengetsu at the age of 75], wood box with inscriptions Rengetsu Tessai gassaku nasu gasan yoko-mono [aubergine painting and poem by Rengetsu and Tessai], Tomioka ke kyuzo [old collection of the Tomioka family] with paper labels on the reverse of the cover inscribed Ren Tetsu gassaku [collaboration of Rengetsu and Tessai] and Tomioka ke zo no uchi hoshi Tessai jikihitsu hozon suru [paper wrapping with inscription by Tessai from the Tomioka family] 30.5 x 43.7cm. (excluding mount)
Christie's