Japanese Scrolls

Japanese scrolls traditionally come in two forms: hanging scrolls and hand scrolls. Hanging scrolls, also called kakemono or kakejiku, are usually made of paper or silk mounted on another layer of silk or other fabric that is temporarily hung for display, revealing the entirety of the scroll and its contents. Hand scrolls are made entirely of paper or silk and are only viewed in small sections at a time starting from the right side into the left.

The Japanese hanging scroll consists of four standard parts that represent heaven, earth, and two pillars in between. The top section above the mounted image of kakejiku is considered heaven, the bottom is earth, and the sides are the pillar supports. Traditionally, the top portion is larger than the bottom.

The hand scroll, or emaki, is most suited for illustrating a narrative. These scrolls were painted with both intricate images and beautiful calligraphy. While these scrolls were originally introduced to Japan through Buddhism, secular hand scrolls such as the "Tale of Genji" and "Siege of Sanjo Palace" became important documentations of time and demonstrations of groundbreaking perspective and painting.

Quick Facts

• Within hand scrolls, text describing a narrative most commonly precedes the image. However, calligraphy can often be broken up between images or chapters
• Hanging scrolls were not meant to be hung up on the wall permanently. Instead, these scrolls were made to be swapped out depending on occasion and stored away if not displayed for a guest
• During World War II, hanging scrolls, particularly those featuring beautiful Japanese women in kimonos, were mass produced and cheap to purchase. However, few works have been produced since the war, making hanging scrolls rare. Still, antique hanging scrolls are often affordable at auction