Fan 

This fan was made by Kanō Motonobu in 16th century Japan, using ink on paper. The fan is a humble object, a personal item from everyday life, yet here it becomes a canvas for skilled artistry. The ink is applied in delicate washes and precise lines, capturing a quiet scene of a fisherman by the river. The materiality of the fan itself influences the artwork's appearance, with its curved surface presenting a unique challenge for composition. Consider the process of crafting this fan: the careful selection and preparation of paper, the grinding of ink, and the mastery of brushstrokes. These are all skills honed through years of practice. The image on the fan connects to the social context of its time, perhaps reflecting a longing for simplicity in a world of increasing complexity. Ultimately, this fan challenges traditional notions of art, by inviting us to appreciate the artistry embedded in everyday objects.