539 Priests of the Fuke-sect (Komuso). Water color painted by Sanzo Wada, printed by Kyoto-Hangain Co. Ltd. Matted and framed to an overall size of 13 x 17".
The priests are playing the shakubachi, a bamboo flute, and they beg contributions of money or rice by which they earn their living. The Fuke-sect is a Buddhist sect which originated in Japan long ago. In the chivalrous age, such warriors (samurais) who had to hide from the public, created this sect and built many temples where they passed their lives. This is why the Komuso wears a sword and large head-gear to hide his face.
Estimated Value $350-UP.