Three Poems from the Collection of Poems Ancient and Modern (Kokin wakashū), one of the Araki Fragments (Araki-gire) 11th century

This fragment with three poems from the Kokin wakashū collection was written by Fujiwara no Yukinari, or Kōzei, in the Heian period. The elegant calligraphy, known as “wayō,” immediately strikes the eye with its delicate, flowing lines and balanced forms. The characters are written in a vertical arrangement, with the strokes varying in thickness and curvature, creating a visual rhythm that mirrors the poetic content. Yukinari masterfully uses the brush to convey not just words, but also a sense of movement and emotion. The very structure of the calligraphy itself enhances the meaning of the poems. Each character is meticulously crafted, demonstrating a profound understanding of form and space. The density of the ink contrasts with the untouched paper, creating a dynamic tension. This interplay is a key element in understanding the artist's intention, reflecting the broader aesthetics of the Heian period, where refinement and sensitivity were highly valued.