The Broom Tree (Hahakigi), Calligraphic Excerpt from Chapter 2 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari) c. 1509 - 1510

Curator: This is a page of calligraphy, titled "The Broom Tree," from Chapter 2 of The Tale of Genji. Editor: It feels very intimate, like a handwritten letter found tucked away. The blue is unexpectedly calming, and the script dances on the page. Curator: Indeed. The calligraphy is by Konoe Hisamichi, a figure of great cultural importance although we lack specific dates for his life. The Tale of Genji, a cornerstone of Japanese literature, holds immense cultural weight. Editor: I’m struck by the ornamentation; dragons intertwined with geometric patterns. It creates this gorgeous tension between the rigid and the flowing. Curator: The dragon is a common motif in Japanese art, often symbolizing power and good fortune, and its presence reflects the importance of the text and the patron who commissioned it. Editor: It's also incredible to imagine the stories these characters contain, the layers of history and emotion embedded within them. Curator: Absolutely. The Broom Tree hints at the complexity of the Genji story, touching upon love, loss, and courtly intrigue. Editor: This small page whispers of worlds beyond. It’s a reminder that art can be both personal and powerfully universal. Curator: A testament to the enduring legacy of the written word and the visual arts.