Traditionally Attributed to a Japanese Emperor, “Goryō Hassha Daimyōjin”

This is a Japanese hanging scroll traditionally attributed to an unidentified emperor, bearing the seven-character calligraphic inscription “Goryō Hassha Daimyōjin” (御霊八社大明神), a sacred title invoking the great deity of the eight Goryō shrines. The characters are written in bold, solemn brushwork, their vertical arrangement creating a commanding devotional presence.

The label attached to the front of the scroll is inscribed “Goshinkan” (御宸翰), literally meaning “the august sovereign’s calligraphy,” a traditional designation for writing executed in the hand of an emperor or retired emperor. The label therefore records the work’s historical attribution as imperial calligraphy, although the identity of the emperor is not specified.

The scroll is particularly distinguished by its elaborate mounting. The surrounding ornamental borders are hand-painted with large blue-and-gold chrysanthemum medallions, scrolling vines, stylized clouds, and multicolored decorative motifs. The chrysanthemum, closely associated with the Japanese imperial household, reinforces the ceremonial and imperial character of the presentation. The combination of monumental calligraphy and richly painted borders gives the work the appearance of an important devotional object intended for formal display.

This work will be featured in the special exhibition Time Well Wasted: Five Hundred Years of Japanese Ink Painting, held at Michaan’s Auctions from August 16 to 21, 2026, and will be published in the accompanying book of the same title by Jingwei Zeng.

{Image size: 38 5/8 x 9 7/8 inches, Scroll size: 62 x 13 1/2}.

The scroll has creasing, soiling and puncture holes with loss. For condition report and additional photos, please contact the Asian Art Department.