Kakemono

A kakemono (掛け物, kakemono), more commonly referred to as a kakejiku (掛け軸, kakejiku) is a Japanese scroll painting or calligraphy mounted with brocade fabric edges on a flexible backing, so that it can be rolled for storage.

As opposed to makimono, which are meant to be unrolled laterally on a flat surface, a kakemono is intended to be displayed vertically as part of the interior decoration of a room. It is traditionally displayed in the tokonoma alcove of a room especially designed for the display of prized objects. When displayed in a chashitsu, or teahouse for the traditional tea ceremony, the choice of the kakemono and its complementary flower arrangement help set the spiritual mood of the ceremony

In contrast to the byobu (folding screen) or shohekiga (wall paintings), kakemono can be easily and quickly changed to match the season or occasion.

The kakemono was introduced to Japan during the Heian period, primarily in the form of Buddhist images for religious veneration, or as a vehicle to display calligraphy or poetry. From the Muromachi period, landscapes, flower and bird paintings, portraiture, and poetry became the favorite themes.

In modern times, hanging scrolls of anime and manga characters as well as kung fu film stars are popular in North America.

There are two styles:

If the width is shorter than the height, it is called a Standing Scroll (立軸, tatejiku); if the width is longer than the height, it is called a Side Scroll (横軸, yokojiku).

See also

• Japanese painting

Reference

• Mason, Penelope. History of Japanese Art. Prentice Hall (2004). ISBN: 0131176021