Calligraphy "Long Life"

Name: Calligraphy "Long Life"
SKU: 4034
Price: 120.00 EUR
Availability: InStock

Kakemono, unique work, 105 x 54 cm

Product number: 4034

Height 105 cm
Width 54 cm
Item Type Kakemono
Jikusaki Wood
Material Honshi Paper
Period of Creation Shôwa (1926–1989)
Technique Hand-Painted
Unique Work Yes

€120.00

Available, delivery time: 1-3 Days

Description

Some calligraphies deliberately confine themselves to a single, clearly defined subject – as does this kakemono, whose characters simply mean 'Long Life.' Precisely in its brevity, the statement unfolds a particular effect, as it formulates, without detour, one of the central wishes of human coexistence.

The brushwork is powerful and swift, with pronounced thickening at the beginning and end of the strokes, lending the calligraphy a palpable dynamism. Such congratulatory formulas were traditionally given in Japan on milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or the New Year's festival, to wish the recipient health and long life.

As wall decoration for the tokonoma alcove or as a meaningful gift for a special occasion, this kakemono is excellently suited. For collectors of Japanese calligraphy who, alongside artful landscape motifs, also appreciate the pure power of the characters, this work, Calligraphy "Long Life", is a clear and timeless choice.

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?.