Poem c. early 18th century

This fan, "Poem," was created by the Japanese artist Itō Tōgai in the early 18th century. The fan features a poem written in elegant black calligraphy on a pale beige paper. Tōgai was known for his masterful use of brushwork and calligraphy, and this piece showcases his talent, creating a delicate balance of form and content. This work serves as an example of the art of Japanese calligraphy, a practice known as Shodo, practiced for centuries and integral to Japanese culture.