Kakemono Calligraphy "Peaches and Plums"

This kakemono takes up an old Chinese proverb that also became well known in Japan: 'Peaches and plums need not speak, yet the world finds a path to them.' What is meant is that true quality and sincere character need no loud words to gain recognition – they speak, in a sense, for themselves.

The two visible characters for 'peach' are executed in a flowing, slightly cursive hand, in which individual strokes merge generously into one another. A red seal at the upper right confirms authorship and rounds off the composition harmoniously. Such maxims were gladly hung as an expression of modesty and quiet self-confidence in the study or reception room.

For collectors of classical East Asian maxims and calligraphy, this kakemono is a substantial and at the same time elegant addition.