Suma, Calligraphic Excerpt from Chapter 12 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari) c. 1509 - 1510

Editor: This is "Suma, Calligraphic Excerpt from Chapter 12 of the Tale of Genji" by Son'ō Jugō, held at the Harvard Art Museums. The abstract shapes suggest letters, but I find it difficult to see words. What cultural context am I missing? Curator: This work highlights the elevated status of calligraphy in Japanese society. The Tale of Genji was incredibly influential. How might the social standing of the text affect its reception? Editor: It suggests calligraphy's value was linked to the text's prestige and broad cultural recognition, not just pure aesthetics? Curator: Precisely. The artistic merit of calligraphy was inextricably tied to the literary and social importance of the work it represented. What does that say about the artist's role? Editor: So, the artist enhances the prestige through skillful rendering rather than independent artistic expression? Interesting. Curator: Yes, and consider how the display of this excerpt in museums today shapes our understanding of traditional art forms. Editor: Thanks. That makes me think differently about the artwork's purpose and public perception.