Untitled (a tree) 

Ike no Taiga created this ink drawing of a tree sometime in the 18th century. The composition presents a close-up view of the tree. In this seemingly simple sketch, the artist's formal dexterity is evident in the intricate details of the needles and the rugged texture of the bark, capturing the tree’s essence with remarkable economy. The interplay between the solidity of the trunk and the delicate lacework of the foliage creates a visual tension, while the monochromatic palette accentuates the formal qualities. The tree’s sturdy presence acts as a signifier of resilience and endurance. The artist’s deft use of line and space challenges fixed meanings, inviting contemplation on the transience of existence. The tree acts as a metaphor, and embodies the convergence of aesthetics and philosophy.