A Confucian principle 1771
itsuzan
minneapolisinstituteofart
ink-on-paper, hanging-scroll
word art style
calligraphy
hand-lettering
lettering
hand drawn type
hand lettering
japan
ink-on-paper
word art
hanging-scroll
hand-drawn typeface
calligraphic
calligraphy
small lettering
This hanging scroll, *A Confucian Principle* (1771) by the Japanese artist Itsuzan (1702–1778), showcases the calligraphic skill of the artist. The characters are executed in a bold and confident hand, demonstrating a mastery of the brush and ink. Itsuzan's work exemplifies the beauty and precision of Japanese calligraphy, a form of art deeply rooted in Confucian ideals of self-cultivation and ethical conduct. The work is currently housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art.
Comments
Born in Osaka, Itsuzan studied seal script and seal carving and presented his findings to the government at the early age of 16. In 1738 he became a Buddhist monk and around ten years later moved to Nagasaki to study the colorful Chinese bird and flower painting style. In 1757 he settled down at a temple in Kyoto where he responded to the many requests for his painting and calligraphy. This single line of seal script is from this later period and is based off of Confucian teachings. 行仁義事 致遠經方Implement benevolent and righteous actions;Expand them afar, so the standard is corrected.(Trans. Stephen Addiss)
Join the conversation
Join millions of artists and users on Artera today and experience the ultimate creative platform.
CollectMore like this
