A charming vintage Japanese shikishi artwork created in the traditional chigiri-e (ちぎり絵) technique, depicting sarumawashi (猿回し) the historic Japanese art of trained monkey performance.
The composition shows a monkey dressed in a small traditional cap, holding a ritual-style wand and moving energetically across the scene. Its body is formed from carefully torn pieces of textured washi paper, giving the fur a wonderfully soft, fibrous appearance. The figure is set within a fan-shaped panel against a rich gold background, creating a refined contrast between folk subject matter and elegant presentation.
Sarumawashi is a traditional Japanese performance in which trained monkeys perform gestures, acrobatics, or humorous routines under the guidance of a handler. The practice has a long history and was once closely connected with New Year celebrations, street entertainment, and auspicious performances.
Monkeys were also regarded as protective and lucky animals in certain religious and folk traditions. Because saru (猿) can be associated with the verb saru (去る), “to leave” or “to go away,” monkey imagery could carry the wish that misfortune or evil would depart.
Chigiri-e literally means “torn-paper picture.” Instead of using cut paper, the artist tears pieces of washi by hand and layers them to create an image. The exposed fibres along the edges produce soft, painterly textures that are especially effective for fur, clothing, and natural forms.
Vintage condition with age-related wear, toning, or marks, consistent with its age and character.
Size: 24 x 27cm
