Kakemono, the hanging scrolls that tell Japan’s story
Kakemono are hanging scrolls featuring calligraphy or paintings, integral elements adorning both sacred and domestic spaces in Japan. Their creation and meticulous storage after Obon reflect the Mottainai philosophy, valuing every piece of silk and ink. These objects safeguard history, devotion, and a deep connection to ancestors, offering a glimpse into daily spirituality.
01. The art of kakemono in everyday life: A bridge between sacred and home
Upon entering a traditional Japanese home, one’s gaze is often drawn to the kakemono, the hanging scroll that resides in the raised alcove of the tokonoma. This artwork transcends mere decoration, offering a true multisensory experience through visual and tactile perception. The carefully selected silk weaving or the delicate grain of washi paper reveal a richness of detail and color that seems to vibrate in the natural light of the room. Each brushstroke of a painting or every character of calligraphy imprints itself on memory, carrying a silent but profound presence. Its precious craftsmanship stimulates a tactile perception, almost a desire to touch the fabric. The kakemono, also known as kakejiku, is a Japanese hanging scroll used to display paintings and calligraphies, often mounted with silk fabric borders on a flexible backing, designed to be rolled up and carefully stored. When displayed, it captures attention and invites contemplation, serving as the first impression for any visitor. This decorative element, also referred to as ‘tokokake’ when hung in the tokonoma, adorns both sacred and domestic spaces, representing an intimate connection with the intrinsic beauty of Japanese culture.
The primary function of the kakemono transcends mere decoration, elevating it to the focal point of the space. The scroll creates a point of aesthetic and spiritual concentration within the home. This elevation is a sign of deep respect, honoring both the environment and the guest within it. When a kakemono is paired with a flower vase (ikebana) or another art object in the tokonoma, a true ‘silk ikebana’ is formed. The silent dialogue between these elements transforms the corner of the house into a small altar, a celebration of seasonal beauty and a call to reflection. Its presence is a visual meditation, capable of imbuing the surrounding environment with harmony and depth, communicating the soul of the home.
The versatility of the kakemono is evident in its adaptability to specific contexts. Various types of scrolls exist, each designed for a particular environment or occasion. For example, in refined tea houses, one finds ‘chakake’, narrower scrolls often featuring Zen inscriptions, intended to accompany the quiet of the ceremony. In homes where ancestor worship is practiced, ‘bukake’ are hung, specific scrolls used within butsudan, Buddhist altars, depicting images of the main Buddha, his attendants, or inscriptions such as Buddhist names or posthumous names, used to honor spirits. There are also kakemono intended for outdoor use, less delicate and made from more robust materials like raw canvas or thicker, more durable washi paper, suitable for temporary display during minor festivals or neighborhood events. Outdoor examples, for instance, favor resilient subjects and colors that withstand the elements. The differentiation in materials and subjects highlights the deep integration of this object into Japanese life. Its history and development journey through centuries, from temples to more modest dwellings. The ability to adapt and persist demonstrates how the kakemono, since its earliest appearances, has woven its presence into the cultural fabric of Japan.
02. The historical journey of the Japanese scroll from antiquity to contemporary use
The journey of the kakemono is deeply rooted in history, beginning long before its full bloom in the country. Its origins can be traced to China, from where it was introduced to Japan as a fundamental tool for the spread of Buddhism, likely as early as the Nara period (710-794). Initially, these hanging scrolls were primarily sutras, sacred texts that were venerated and studied, serving as vehicles of devotion. In China, during the Northern Song dynasty, hanging scrolls already held strong religious connotations and were used for ‘hanging and worshipping’. Subsequently, they transformed into votive paintings, ‘Butsu-e’, depictions of Buddha and bodhisattvas, created on silk or paper, materials that from the outset defined their precious and durable nature. Early kakemono were objects of profound spirituality, enriching the spaces of temples and early noble residences. Their very existence is linked to the expansion of faith, transforming them into a bridge between divinity and humanity, a conduit for understanding the sacred.
💡 Did you know?
Consider that the kakemono tradition, in addition to spreading in Japan, also influenced art internationally. It was imitated by local artists in Spanish colonies, such as the Philippines and the Americas, to create portable and accessible art, extending its format far beyond Asian borders.
In the Heian era (794-1185), the kakemono began to develop its own unmistakable Japanese aesthetic, progressively detaching itself from continental models. With the flourishing of yamato-e art, Japan’s indigenous art form, the scroll transformed into a narrative and poetic tool, used in courts to tell stories, depict scenes of daily life, or illustrate waka (poems). This evolution marked an important step towards its integration into local culture, assuming a significant role in interior decoration. In the Muromachi period (1336-1573), with the emergence of Chanoyu, the tea ceremony, and the affirmation of the Wabi-Sabi concept, the kakemono became an essential element of tea rooms. The scroll became a vehicle of philosophical meaning, no longer just a work of art, chosen with care to reflect the spirit of the encounter and the aesthetic of imperfection. In this context, kakemono with ink paintings (sumi-e), influenced by Zen Buddhism, became particularly common, and their importance was emphasized by tea masters like Sen no Rikyū. The scroll elevated the experience, transforming observation into meditation.
The Edo period (1603-1868) saw the democratization of art and a wider spread of the kakemono, with the concept of the tokonoma extending to common households. The variety of subjects exploded, reflecting daily life, breathtaking landscapes (kacho-ga, paintings of flowers and birds), and popular scenes captured in ukiyo-e. The introduction of the Ming (明朝式表具) mounting style and influences from literati painting (文人画) led to more elaborate examples, with significant development in mounting techniques. The kakemono’s ability to endure through centuries testifies to the mastery and devotion employed in its creation. The chosen materials, precise fastening techniques, and careful storage have allowed countless works of art and calligraphy to survive intact. Meticulous attention to conservation, such as the use of acid-free rice paste, has protected the scrolls from time, unlike many other art formats more exposed to deterioration. Every kakemono, regardless of its era, remains a living fragment of Japan’s artistic and spiritual history, a true jewel of craftsmanship that embodies centuries of artisan skill and deep knowledge of materials, elements that deserve to be explored in detail.
03. The meticulous craftsmanship of silk, paper, and wood for each kakemono
Each kakemono is a marvel of craftsmanship, a careful combination of selected materials meticulously worked, where every component contributes to the final harmony. At the heart of each scroll is precious washi paper, a material that serves as a vibrant soul for the painting or calligraphy, as well as a support. Its artisanal manufacturing, often from the bark of kozo, mitsumata, or gampi, imparts extraordinary strength and longevity, distinguishing it from common papers. Its absorbent qualities make it ideal for sumi-e, ink painting, and for the delicate nuances of calligraphy, allowing the ink to penetrate and set deeply. Its intrinsic robustness preserves it from deterioration. The transparency of washi, when viewed against the light, reveals the beauty of its irregular fibers and unique texture, attesting to its artisanal quality and authenticity. Washi is the heart of this composition, the starting point for artistic expression. The choice of this paper is crucial, as it must withstand time and rolling without losing its integrity or the brilliance of the artwork, preserving its artistic expression intact. Each fiber tells the story of a centuries-old process, a connection with nature and tradition that elevates the scroll.
💡 Expert Tip: The structure of kakemono utilizes refined fabrics. Materials such as kinran, a gold brocade, ginran, a silver brocade, or donsu, a heavy satin, are common. You may also find sha, a light gauze, for borders or decorative bands. The ichimonji and fūtai parts are often made with contrasting fabrics to highlight the chūmawashi.
Around the central artwork, a true textile architecture unfolds, with silk (kinu) and brocades (nishiki) forming the borders and decorative bands. The ‘Maruhyōsō’ style, for example, features distinct sections such as the ‘ten’ (heaven) at the top, the ‘chi’ (earth) at the bottom, and the ‘hashira’ (pillars) on the sides, all crafted from refined fabrics like kinran (gold brocade) or donsu (heavy satin). The ichimonji is often woven with gold thread, while the ‘fūtai’, the upper decorative bands, can be of the same material or different fabrics to create contrast. The ‘ten’ was traditionally longer than the ‘chi’ to offer an optimal perspective for those observing from a kneeling position (seiza), a practice that is still maintained. The gluing and mounting process, called ‘hyoso’, is equally crucial: through a multi-layered lamination with natural rice-paste glues, the artwork is given rigidity, prevented from deforming, and ensured flatness, while allowing for smooth rolling and unrolling and preserving the artwork for generations.
The lower part of the kakemono is fitted with a cylindrical rod, the ‘jikugi’, whose ends, called ‘jiku’ (or ‘jikusaki’), serve as handles and provide weight and balance to the scroll. Often made of sugi or paulownia wood, materials valued for their lightness and insect resistance, the jiku can be simple or decorated with ivory, rosewood, red lacquer, or crystal, depending on the value and subject of the artwork. Sugi wood, in particular, is known for being fragrant, weather-resistant, and decay-resistant, characteristics that make it ideal for a handcrafted item meant to last. At the upper part, called ‘hassō’, metal rings, the ‘kan’, are attached, to which the ‘kakehimo’, the silk cord for hanging the artwork, is tied. Additional pieces like ‘fuchin’, weights with colored tassels, can be used to stabilize the scroll. The ‘kakejiku’, the most common type with a lower jiku, is distinguished from the ‘kakebana’, a specific kakemono, often smaller and sometimes without a lower jiku, designed to be hung above the tokonoma and emphasize a lighter, more ephemeral aesthetic. The kakemono is a breathing textile architecture, not a simple painting. Every constructive detail enhances its value and importance in daily Japanese life.
04. Displaying and contemplating the kakemono in the tokonoma and traditional festivals
Displaying a kakemono in the tokonoma is a ritual that transcends a casual gesture, transforming a corner of the home into a true stage for the soul. The tokonoma, originally a sacred space in samurai residences, has evolved into a place of profound respect that honors the guest and nature itself. Its raised configuration elevates the displayed object far beyond its materiality, inviting a reverent posture. The sacred alcove becomes an altar for ephemeral and perennial beauty. Here, the principle of ‘ma’ (間), the Japanese concept of space and interval, manifests. The kakemono defines the void; it does not merely fill it, inviting silent and deep contemplation. The emptiness surrounding the artwork enhances its presence, allowing the observer to immerse themselves without distraction in the beauty of the calligraphy or painting. It invites one to slow down, to perceive the very essence of the artwork, to breathe with it in a moment of inner stillness, creating an atmosphere of intimate harmony. The staging meticulously cares for every aspect of the aesthetic and spiritual experience, making each viewing a unique event.
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There is the curious practice of kakegae, which involves changing kakemono not only according to the season but also according to the guest or time of day. This allowed for expressing always appropriate decor, for example, choosing snowy landscapes in winter or depictions of lotus flowers for summer, a gesture of thoughtfulness and harmony.
The choice of kakemono to display is dictated by seasonality, a practice known as ‘kakegae’. It is a way to harmonize the environment with the rhythm of nature and succeeding festivities, as well as an aesthetic consideration. During the harsh winter, one might admire snowy landscapes or calligraphies evoking resistance to cold, while in summer, scrolls may depict lotus flowers, fans, or refreshing scenes, bringing a sense of lightness and coolness. The custom of changing the artwork based on the guest, season, or time of day arose precisely to express the appropriate decor for the situation. Hanging a kakemono requires delicacy and specific tools, such as a Y- or U-shaped tool, the ‘yahazu’ or ‘kakemono-dō’, or a ‘jizai-kake’ if the hooks are placed high. One holds the scroll with the left hand, while with the right, hooks the upper cord to the wall, then adjusts the balance and unfurls the decorative bands (fūtai), a gesture of care that enhances the artwork.
💡 Expert Tip: When hanging a kakemono, use a yahazu, a Y- or U-shaped tool. Hold the scroll with your left hand, then hook the upper cord with your right. Adjust the kakemono’s balance and unfurl the decorative fūtai bands for an elegant display. If the hooks are placed high, a jizai-kake, an adjustable hook, will be ideal to reach the correct height.
A particularly significant moment for the kakemono is the Obon festival, the commemoration of ancestors. On this occasion, specific scrolls, often with images of Amida Buddha or sutras, are hung beside the butsudan, the domestic Buddhist altar, to welcome the spirits of the deceased and strengthen family and spiritual ties. The contemplation of such artworks takes on an even more intimate and devotional character. The practice of ‘miru’ (seeing/contemplating) is intrinsic to this interaction: it involves lowering oneself, often kneeling, to closely observe every detail of the brushstroke, the depth of the ink, or the texture of the silk. It is an act of respect and deep participation, not just mere looking, a way to resonate with the art and its message. To remove the kakemono, the reverse process is performed with equal delicacy, holding it with one hand and unhooking the yahazu with the other, carefully lowering it and precisely folding the fūtai before rolling it up. After display, the scroll is meticulously put away, wrapped and protected with a sheet of paper, reflecting the Mottainai philosophy that values every single piece of silk and ink. The gentle rustle of the silk as the kakemono unfurls, a breath that opens the space for contemplation, is the epilogue of an annual cycle of beauty and respect, awaiting to be admired once more.
05. Mottainai, the philosophy of respect in caring for and preserving the hanging scroll
The kakemono is a living embodiment of a profound philosophical value, not just a simple artifact: Mottainai. This concept, rooted in the Kamakura period, expresses regret for waste and an intimate awareness of the intrinsic value of everything, almost a feeling of not deserving something so beautiful. Every gesture made in rolling up and storing a kakemono is a tangible manifestation of Mottainai. The silk slides delicately under the fingers, the washi paper, so resistant and absorbent, is caressed with meticulousness, as a careful and almost ritualistic storage is performed. Respect for the object is a conscious manipulation, not a formality, aimed at preserving its integrity and beauty for generations to come. It recognizes the energy and art poured into its creation, ensuring that every piece of ink and fiber continues to tell its story, preventing its full value from being discarded unnecessarily. The essence of Mottainai emerges from a concrete gesture of deep care, an appreciation for the gifts of nature and human ingenuity.
💡 Expert Tip: To protect your hanging scroll, store it in a kiribako, a paulownia wood box, maintaining a stable temperature. This box offers natural protection from humidity. Add kōboku, fragrant wood sticks, inside to deter insects and preserve the artwork.
Meticulous care in rolling is essential to ensure the longevity of a kakemono. Each scroll is rolled upon itself with a slow and delicate motion, avoiding creases or irreversible damage to the surface. To prevent the paper or silk from being damaged, a precise technique is used: often a paulownia core, called futomaki, is attached to the lower rod, allowing for softer winding and preventing the formation of unsightly creases. Such attention to detail protects the painting, especially from excessive humidity or dryness that could cause stains and mold. This scrupulous attention preserves the artwork and ensures that the pleasure of its contemplation can be renewed many times over.
The kakemono’s final sanctuary is the ‘kiribako’, a paulownia wood box, an essential refuge for its preservation. Paulownia wood, or kiri, is chosen for its unique properties: lightness, moisture resistance, and natural insecticidal qualities. Kiri boxes maintain a surprisingly constant internal humidity, protecting the scroll from climatic fluctuations and the threat of insects, often with the addition of fragrant wood sticks like kōboku. Another aspect of Mottainai is the practice of not permanently displaying kakemono, but granting them periods of ‘rest’, preventing excessive exposure to light and humidity and maintaining their ‘freshness’. The scroll is aired in the shade once a year during periods of low humidity to ensure its health. Finally, the restoration of ancient works is the highest act of respect, a process that employs traditional techniques and materials to prolong the life of the artwork, honoring the original work and ensuring that the artistic expressions it holds continue to enchant, such as sumi-e painting and shodo calligraphy, which are just waiting to be rediscovered.
06. Sumi-e and Zen calligraphy: The diverse artistic expressions on the scroll
The kakemono is the silent canvas on which some of the most evocative Japanese artistic expressions manifest, among which Sumi-e stands out. This monochromatic ink painting, almost a visual meditation, utilizes sumi, solid ink, and suzuri, the inkstone, to create a universe of infinite gradations of black. From the deepest black to the faintest gray, each brushstroke carries with it the power and delicacy of nature. Techniques such as ‘haboku’, ‘broken ink’ that creates effects of dissolution and gradation, or ‘hatsuboku’, ‘splashed ink’ for controlled and dynamic stains, are direct expressions of spontaneity and Zen philosophy. Such styles celebrate imperfection and transience, transforming a simple stroke into an echo of profound truths, inviting reflection on the very essence of existence, where the ephemeral becomes eternal.
Alongside Sumi-e stands the noble art of Shodo, calligraphy, in which the ‘fude‘ – the brush – becomes an extension of the artist’s body and spirit. Washi, with its vibrant surface and unique ability to absorb ink, embraces each character as an indelible imprint. Here, the importance of every single stroke is paramount, from the pressure exerted on the paper to the speed with which the brush moves, imbuing kanji with life and meaning. Each ideogram is a microcosm of energy and grace, a dance between fullness and emptiness that tells stories, expresses emotions, and conveys millennia of wisdom. The artist does not merely write but gives form to thought, transforming ink into a heartbeat that resonates in the white space.
Zen Buddhism has profoundly influenced both Sumi-e and Shodo, permeating them with concepts such as immediacy of action and meditative simplicity. ‘Hitofude-gaki’, painting in a single stroke, or ‘ensō’, the Zen circle, represent enlightenment, completeness, and emptiness, emblems of an aesthetic that embraces imperfection and the present moment. The artist’s ‘signature’, or ‘rakkan’, is an integral compositional element, far from being a simple seal. Its position, the color of the red ‘tenkoku’ ink, and the calligraphy of the signature itself enhance its value, providing keys to recognizing authenticity and quality. The kakemono, with its versatility, can host a surprising variety of subjects and styles: from majestic mountain landscapes (sansui-ga) to portraits of monks (chinsō), from delicate waka or haiku poems to profound Buddhist maxims (bokuseki). There are also tanzaku, shikishi, and gazan, small formats of calligraphy or painting inserted into scrolls, or even shōsoku, ancient letters that acquire new dignity. The richness of expressions awaits to be embraced, suggesting that for every environment and every state of mind, there is a kakemono ready to converse, an invitation to reflect on how to choose a silent companion for one’s home.
07. Choosing and honoring an authentic kakemono for your Japanese-style home
Choosing an authentic kakemono for your home is an act that goes far beyond the simple acquisition of a decorative object; it is a journey into the heart of Japanese culture. The criteria for authenticity are not limited to the presence of a signature or the age of the work. It is essential to evaluate the stylistic coherence of the ensemble, the intrinsic quality of the materials used, such as prized washi paper or finely woven silk, and the pigmentation of the ink. A careful examination must also exclude the presence of significant damage or poorly executed restorations, which could diminish the artistic and historical value of the work. Provenance plays a crucial ethical role: it is advisable to rely on trustworthy sources, such as specialized galleries with a consolidated reputation, esteemed art dealers, or certified auctions, to avoid counterfeits and support ethical artisans and collectors. A certificate of authenticity, known as a kanteisho, represents a valuable guarantee, attesting to the history and legitimacy of the piece.
💡 Did you know?
In the past, some kakemono were produced for a mass market, not just as high-value works of art. The Sano region, in Tochigi Prefecture, became a prominent production center for these scrolls, locally known as Sano kakeji, often given as gifts for special occasions such as a child’s first New Year.
The harmonization of the kakemono with its surroundings is a fundamental aesthetic principle. One must carefully consider the dimensions of their tokonoma or designated wall, choosing a scroll that subtly dialogues with the furnishings, colors, and natural light, without overpowering the environment. Traditional proportions, for example, suggest that the dimensions of the kakemono are set to appear optimal when viewed from a seated position (seiza), taking into account the size of tatami mats, and that, in some regions, the upper fabric (ten) is twice the length of the lower fabric (chi). The choice of subject is equally crucial and should be understood in relation to the occasion or season: a kakemono depicting pines and bamboo can evoke prosperity and resilience, while an image of cherry blossoms celebrates the ephemeral beauty of spring. Reflecting on the message or emotion one wishes to evoke is essential to create a coherent and meaningful atmosphere.
💡 Expert Tip: Assess the authenticity of a kakemono by checking stylistic consistency and the quality of materials, such as the washi paper and silk used. Ensure there is no significant damage or unprofessional restoration. Look for a kanteisho, a certificate of authenticity that guarantees its history and legitimacy, and always rely on specialized galleries or reputable art dealers.
The gesture of honoring a kakemono is primarily manifested in its correct display. It should be hung in a central position and at an appropriate height, so that its contemplation can occur effortlessly and with due respect. Delicate cleaning with a duster or soft cloth helps maintain its beauty over time. The kakemono is a living, pulsating element of the home, not merely an object to admire, requiring constant attention and care. Each time one chooses to display it, or to put it away with the same meticulousness with which it was created, a bond is renewed, a silent dialogue with Japanese culture and spirituality. The act of choosing and caring for a kakemono thus transforms into a continuous practice of respect and discovery, an honor rendered to Japan itself.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the different types of kakemono based on their intended use?
Kakemono are distinguished by their environment. You’ll find chakake, which are narrower, specific to tea houses and Zen inscriptions. There are also bukake, used in butsudan, depicting Buddhist images or posthumous names for ancestors.
What are the traditional proportions to consider when displaying a kakemono?
The proportions of kakemono are designed for optimal viewing from a seated position, taking into account the dimensions of the tokonoma and tatami mats. In Kanto, the upper ichimonji is twice the length of the lower, and the ten is twice the chi. In Kansai, the ten is slightly shorter than this 2:1 ratio.
What is the preferred material for kakemono storage boxes and why?
Paulownia boxes, or kiribako, are the ideal container for storing kakemono. Paulownia wood is lightweight, moisture-resistant, and naturally insecticidal, maintaining constant internal humidity and protecting the scroll from climatic fluctuations and insects.
Besides sumi-e and shodo, what other artistic expressions can be found on kakemono?
Kakemono are versatile and host a wide range of expressions. You can find Buddhist paintings, Ukiyo-e prints, mountain landscapes (sansui-ga), portraits of monks (chinsō), waka or haiku poems, or even ancient letters (shōsoku).
How do you protect a kakemono from damage during rolling?
Protect your kakemono during rolling by not tightening it too much to prevent creases. You can attach a futomaki, a paulownia core, to the lower rod for softer winding. This prevents surface damage and ensures a long life for the artwork.
