“Hell” 1634 - 1666

"Hell" is a hanging scroll by Seigan Sōi, a prominent Japanese calligrapher of the Edo period, dating from 1634 to 1666. The work is a striking example of *kanji* calligraphy, where the bold strokes of the brush create a dynamic and expressive composition. The characters, meaning "hell," are rendered with a powerful immediacy, reflecting the intensity and emotional weight of the subject. The scroll’s *kaki-e* (hanging scroll) format was common for showcasing calligraphic works in traditional Japanese homes. It is now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, offering viewers a glimpse into the artistry and spirituality of early Japanese calligraphy.