Hi No Tori Appraisal

Phoenix (火の鳥) Animation Cel with Osamu Tezuka's Autograph

This item is an original anime production cel, specifically identified as a 'Phoenix' (火の鳥) cel, measuring approximately 270mm x 340mm (10.6" x 13.4"). The cel depicts a stylized phoenix in flight, characterized by its creamy yellow body, extended wings, and a long, flowing tail adorned with vibrant red, orange, and purple feather details, accented with small blue and white circles. The bird has a delicate head with a red crest and a small, pointed beak. The background of the cel is a vibrant light blue, likely depicting the sky. A prominent black signature, presumably belonging to Osamu Tezuka, is visible in the upper right quadrant of the cel, adding significant value and authenticity. The cel is housed within a black frame or matte, which helps to present the artwork. The overall condition appears excellent, with no immediately visible signs of warping, paint flaking, or significant scratches, suggesting it has been well-preserved. The crisp lines and vivid colors indicate high-quality animation artwork. The inscription 'S21-176A001' is visible at the top, likely an inventory or production ID. According to the accompanying text, this is an original copyright cel authenticated with Osamu Tezuka's autograph, dating back to a 1980 release, with Osamu Tezuka and Taku Sugiyama as directors, and produced by Mushi Production. The presence of the authentic autograph by Osamu Tezuka, a pivotal figure in Japanese animation, elevates its collectible status significantly. This piece is a testament to the artistry and legacy of classic Japanese animation.