KIKUCHI YOSAI: A SCROLL PAINTING OF TWO SAMURAI IN THE MOUNTAINS By Kikuchi Yosai (1781-1878), signed Kikuchi Takeyasu, toshi hachiju-go and with seal Takeyasu Japan, dated 1866 Painted in ink and colors on silk, with a silk brocade frame, and mounted as a hanging scroll, depicting two samurai resting on a mountain path, one supporting himself on his long sheathed sword, an elaborate kabuto on the ground beside them, only hazy contours of further mountains and a lone tree in the background. Signed Kikuchi Takeyasu, toshi hachiju-go [Kikuchi Takeyasu at the age of 85] and with seal Takeyasu. SIZE 178.5 x 54.5 cm (total) and 101.5 x 42 cm (image only) Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear, few minor creases, minimal soiling. Provenance: French private collection. Kikuchi Yosai, a versatile artist trained in several Japanese styles as well as in Western painting techniques, painted studies of the usages and practices of the ancient court and military households.