Calligraphy "Living in Peace, Not Forgetting War"

Name: Calligraphy "Living in Peace, Not Forgetting War"
SKU: 3747
Price: 140.00 EUR
Availability: InStock

Kakemono, unique work, 170 x 52 cm

Product number: 3747

Height 170 cm
Width 52 cm
Item Type Kakemono
Jikusaki Sculpture
Material Honshi Paper
Period of Creation Shôwa (1926–1989)
Technique Hand-Painted
Unique Work Yes

€140.00

Available, delivery time: 1-3 Days

Description

The characters of this kakemono express a well-known admonition: 'Living in peace, do not forget war.' The maxim reminds us to remain vigilant even in calm, carefree times and to stay mindful of past hardships – a thought that has recurred throughout both Chinese classical literature and Japanese culture.

The bold, clearly rendered characters are executed in a disciplined, easily legible hand that lends appropriate expression to the text's serious message. Every stroke appears deliberate and controlled, without losing vitality.

Maxims of this kind were often hung in studies or reception rooms, to remind visitors and residents alike of vigilance and constancy. For collectors of classical East Asian maxims, this kakemono is a substantial, thought-provoking addition.

Frequently asked

When was the work created?

Based on the previous owners' information and the condition of the object we place it broadly in the Shôwa (1926–1989) period, but cannot give a precise date.

Is this genuine craftsmanship?

Yes, this piece is a genuine handcrafted original that exists only once.

Why does the date of creation sometimes not match the artist's dates

Because the two pieces of information speak about different things: the period designation describes the object – support, colors, condition – while the signature reflects which name appears on the painting. In most cases there is no attempt at deception behind this, but rather Japanese painting training: copying from workshop models was the curriculum for centuries, an utsushi is regarded as a bow to the teacher, workshops signed with the master's name, and artist names were passed down within a school. Such a hanging scroll is therefore not a forgery, but a hand-painted one-of-a-kind that continues the formal language of its school – just not the work of the famous name, and priced accordingly. We explain this in detail in the guide Why does a kakemono often bear the signature of an artist long deceased?.