Calligraphy: The Four Virtues of Chado

Name: Calligraphy: The Four Virtues of Chado
SKU: 5379
Price: 640.00 EUR
Availability: InStock

Kakemono, unique work, 128 x 98 cm

Product number: 5379

Height 128 cm
Width 98 cm
Item Type Kakemono
Jikusaki Bone
Material Honshi Paper
Period of Creation Shôwa (1926–1989)
Technique Hand-Painted
Unique Work Yes

€640.00

Available, delivery time: 1-3 Days

Description

Four characters, written clearly and powerfully one below the other, express the central principles of the Japanese tea ceremony: Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquility.

The even, disciplined brushwork underscores the meditative character of these four concepts, which have been regarded for centuries as the cornerstones of Chado and point far beyond the actual preparation of tea. These four virtues describe an attitude toward life that demands mindfulness in dealing with guests, with the utensils used, and with oneself – an ideal that continues to resonate throughout Japanese aesthetics.

A calligraphy hanging scroll with this text is especially suited for tea rooms or for anyone who feels connected to the philosophy of Chado and wishes to make its principles visible in daily life.

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?.