Japanese Edo Era Hanging Scroll Kakejiku. This is set of two and the scrolls subject matter is exquisite. “Drinking Sake” depicts Japanese goblins drinking sake. The bright reds and strong colors and detail in the goblins and their expressions of drunkenness are one of a kind. In the ten years I spent at auction, only one other Edo era scroll with such unique subject matter came up for sale but did not meet reserve, so it went unsold. This was purchased at a small auction house from a reputable scroll specialist from Nagasaki, Japan in the mid 90s. He was reluctant to sell, but I got it! Though the condition of these scrolls is lacking, there are just not many of these type of quality of work and subject matter scrolls in existence. This is an old set. Based on my conversations with the owner and my own research, it is most definitely middle Edo era. The hardware, the lacquered scroll ends, the silk stitching over paper and original box are very old, perhaps pre 18th century, though likely from the mid to late 1700s. There has been some repair in the top of both pieces. Japanese Washi Paper was used for the repairs. The repair was done in Japan and purchased with the repair. There are some small tears close to the edge of the rollers, significant bug bites and wear along the top half of the scrolls. There is also some creasing as well. These are otherwise intact and ready to hang as intended. The signed box is complete with a couple of the tiny wooden nail pegs (no metal nails in those days) missing. This set over 200 years old. If you are looking for authentic Japanese scrolls, compare this set with the many for sale of this antiquity coming directly from Japan. Compare price, design/motif and condition. If you have any questions or would like to see more photographs, please contact me.