Kakemono Plum Blossoms – Fragrance and Snow

One of a kind — this work exists only once.

Period:
Shôwa (1926–1989)
Dimensions (height x width):
195 x 52 cm
Item number:
5491

This piece has been sold.

Sold – no longer available

This piece was a handmade one-of-a-kind work. It cannot be reordered and will never exist in this form again. The page stays online as part of our archive.

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Details about the sold piece

  • JikusakiWood
  • Material HonshiPaper
  • MotifCalligraphy
  • TechniqueHand-Painted

Description

In a vigorous, semi-cursive brush style, this kakemono joins the characters for "plum blossoms" and "snow" into a poetic unity. The brushwork alternates between full, black areas and slender, energetic lines that lend the sheet a palpable sense of movement despite its brevity.

In content, the calligraphy evokes the classic image of the first plum blossoms, which open amid snow and cold and release their fragrance – a motif taken up many times in Japanese poetry and painting as a symbol of perseverance and the first inkling of approaching spring. Two red seals and a small date accompany the writer's signature.

Mounted on fine, gold-brocade-like fabric and fitted with wooden roller rods, the work dates from the Shôwa period. The picture support is made of paper; the clear, calm design of the border allows the powerful script itself to remain the focal point, making this unique work an elegant example of the art of Japanese calligraphy.

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