Spring and Autumn Quatrains [pt. 2 c. 18th century

Hattori Nankaku created "Spring and Autumn Quatrains" in the mid-Edo period, a time when Japan was experiencing relative peace and economic growth under the Tokugawa Shogunate, fostering a rich environment for the arts. Nankaku, a Confucian scholar and celebrated calligrapher, channels his intellectual and artistic prowess in this piece. The flowing strokes of the calligraphy embody not just literary expression, but also the emotional and spiritual essence of the poems. Nankaku, deeply influenced by Chinese aesthetics and philosophy, uses the act of writing to express his inner world and engage with ideas of nature, time, and human experience. His work reflects the complex interplay between personal expression and cultural heritage. Consider how the vertical format and dynamic brushstrokes may evoke a sense of intimacy and immediacy, allowing viewers to connect with the artist’s emotions across time. The "Spring and Autumn Quatrains" is thus not only a work of art, but also a deeply personal statement that resonates with the viewer.