A Full Moon c. mid 19th century

Nakajima Raishō painted this hanging scroll, A Full Moon, during the 19th century in Japan. The motif of the moon, rendered here in subtle gradations of ink, has long been associated with enlightenment and the ephemeral nature of reality in Eastern philosophy. Consider how the moon, with its cyclical phases, mirrors our own human experiences of birth, growth, decay, and rebirth. This connects us to ancient lunar deities found in cultures across the globe, such as Selene in Greece or Tsukuyomi in Japan. The moon's ethereal glow, suggestive of reflection and introspection, touches something deep within us. Perhaps it is a collective memory, ingrained in our psyche, evoking feelings of longing, mystery, and the sublime. Raishō invites us to contemplate the moon's enduring presence in our shared cultural heritage, demonstrating how symbols evolve and resonate across time.