Framed Japanese Portrait of a Buddhist Priest by Goro Kamenaga

A gouache on silk painting of a Buddhist priest by Japanese painter Goro Kamenaga (1890-1955). The highly realistic painting depicts a figure in seated position, donning a Buddhist robe with a kesa tied on top and holding a string of prayer beads in his hands. Although not possible for us to know his identity, the figure is apparently in high enlightenment, perhaps a historical Zen master. This is indicated by a halo around his head, which is normally reserved for important Arhats or Bodhisattvas, who have reached nirvana in the Buddhism art. The painting was signed Goro and dated to the June of Tasho sixth year (1917). The image size is approximately 21.75" h by 14.75" w. The painting is nicely presented under a brown silk mat in a gilt wood frame.
Born in Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Goro Kamenaga was a disciple of Kiyokata Kaburagi. He was selected for the Imperial Art Exhibition in honor of Prince Shotoku and the Berlin Japanese Painting Exhibition. His work was characterized by its unique beauty, movement and composition, the spirituality and inner nature of the characters, and the freedom of combination of delicate colors and shapes.
For a painted screen with figures by the artist in 1926, see lot 62 of Christie's sale 2266 on March 17th, 2009.