Poem from the Collection of Elegant Flowers (Reikashū), one of the Scented-Paper Fragments (Kōshi-gire) 1034 - 1066

This fragment of calligraphy, known as "Poem from the Collection of Elegant Flowers," was brushed on scented paper by Kodai no Kimi, a woman of the Japanese Heian period. As a member of the aristocratic class, Kimi would have been educated in the arts, including calligraphy, poetry, and music. Calligraphy was more than just writing; it was a deeply personal art form that reflected the writer's character and aesthetic sensibilities. In Heian-era Japan, women played a crucial role in the development of Japanese literature and calligraphy, often using their artistic pursuits to express emotions and connect with others. The Scented-Paper Fragments, like this one, are remnants of a broader artistic tradition that valued subtlety, elegance, and refined expression. The poem itself, part of a larger anthology, speaks to the ephemeral beauty of flowers, and perhaps, by extension, life itself. Appreciate the delicate brushstrokes and the intentional use of space, inviting us to reflect on our own fleeting moments of beauty.