Chinese Scroll Depicting Japanese Cranes

Two cranes, a few reeds, and a great deal of white space.

This scroll, made in China in the 19th century in ink on paper with a silk mount, depicts Japanese cranes. Cranes are commonly associated in East Asian art with longevity and good fortune. Two small birds stand among tall reeds and low grasses painted in soft washes of ochre, pale green and gray. A seal and a few characters mark the lower right of the painting. A brocade border in tan and gray frames the picture, and dark roller ends sit at the base.

About 50 inches tall and 18 inches wide. Hang it where the walls need to breathe.