Two Autumn Poems c. 18th century

"Two Autumn Poems" is a calligraphy work by Ike (Tokuyama) Gyokuran, a prominent Japanese calligrapher of the 18th century. The work is comprised of two poems written in elegant black ink on a cream-colored paper. The piece exemplifies Gyokuran's mastery of the brush, as the strokes are delicate and precise. The use of calligraphy as a form of art has a long and rich tradition in Japan, and Gyokuran’s work is a testament to the beauty and skill of this art form. The piece is currently held at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.