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Antique Japanese Rooster and Hen Print: Symbolic Beauty, 19th Century
About the Item
Antique Japanese Rooster and Hen Print: Symbolic Beauty, 19th Century
This vibrant 19th-century Japanese print beautifully captures a proud rooster and an attentive hen, standing on an ornate, dragon-adorned pedestal with stylized waves swirling around them. Published by Sampson Low & Co. and lithographed in Paris by Imp. Lemercier & Cie, this piece is part of a larger series produced under the direction of G. A. Audsley—an important figure in promoting Japanese art to Western collectors.
The bold colors and exquisite detailing bring the birds to life, their rich plumage rendered in striking golds, reds, and deep greens. The rooster’s strong stance and majestic tail feathers contrast with the gentle form of the hen, creating a harmonious balance of strength and quiet grace. Beneath them, the dragon emblem further enriches the composition, symbolizing power, protection, and cosmic energy in Japanese mythology.
Roosters and hens hold special significance in Japanese culture. The rooster, often associated with dawn and renewal, is a symbol of vigilance and auspicious beginnings. The hen, with her nurturing presence, symbolizes domestic harmony and maternal care. Together, they embody themes of balance, prosperity, and the cycles of life—values deeply rooted in Japanese cultural philosophy.
The decorative border, with its repeating floral medallions, frames the scene with an added layer of elegance. The overall effect is one of both regal presence and cultural resonance, making this print a standout for collectors of Japanese art or those seeking to infuse their space with a sense of timeless symbolism.
Here’s a more in-depth look at the cultural significance of the rooster and dragon motifs, along with additional historical context to enrich the listing:
In Japanese folklore and symbolism, the rooster is a creature of both the earthly and the spiritual worlds. Its crowing at dawn signifies the banishing of darkness and the arrival of new light, making it a symbol of renewal, vigilance, and protection. Roosters are also associated with the Shinto deity Amaterasu, the sun goddess, as they are said to have called her back from hiding and restored sunlight to the world—a powerful emblem of hope and rebirth.
The hen, by contrast, represents the quieter virtues of domesticity, stability, and nurturing. In art, the pairing of the rooster and hen can signify the harmonious balance of masculine and feminine forces—strength paired with care, dynamism with quiet support.
The dragon is another profound motif in Japanese art, embodying elemental power, wisdom, and protection. While dragons are common in Chinese art as well, Japanese dragons are typically seen as benevolent water deities, guardians of rivers and seas. In this print, the dragon’s presence beneath the birds hints at a world of mythic protection and the cosmic cycles that govern the natural world. Together with the rooster and hen, the dragon completes a triad of symbols for power, balance, and renewal.
This print is a wonderful example of Meiji-era fascination with blending mythic symbolism and naturalist depiction—elegant in execution yet deeply layered in meaning. It offers a moment of contemplation on the interconnectedness of daily life, mythology, and the eternal rhythms of nature.
Condition Report:
The print is in excellent condition, with vibrant colors and only minor foxing or age-related marks at the margins. The central image remains crisp and deeply engaging.
Framing Tips:
Opt for a classic black or deep wooden frame to anchor the rich colors of this piece. A white or cream mat will create a harmonious transition, highlighting the intricate detail and the dynamic composition of the print.
- Dimensions:Height: 15.75 in (40 cm)Width: 10.83 in (27.5 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1882
- Condition:The print is in excellent condition, with vibrant colors and only minor foxing or age-related marks at the margins. The central image remains crisp and deeply engaging.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-14034-1-221stDibs: LU3054345213502
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